While the real-life events are endearing, the big problem here is the narration—not only how it’s delivered but how it’s written.

| Original Score: 2.5/4 | Dec 4, 2022

Proof sometimes nature surprises even the experts

| Mar 18, 2020

The people who make these movies are amazing.

| Original Score: A | Apr 26, 2019

I'm fairly certain chimpanzees aren't always as darling-or human-as depicted here, but it's nice to see a G-rated movie for once.

| Original Score: 7/10 | Nov 9, 2018

The House of Mouse have crafted an enjoyable, fun tale that might not be particularly scientific in its methods.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Aug 23, 2018

Though the Chucklevision script is clearly targeted at human cubs, the astonishing up-close chimp footage is a wow for all ages, if only us elders were allowed to enjoy it in peace.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Sep 5, 2017

It's beautifully photographed, whimsically narrated by Tim Allen and keeps completely schtum about the rough sex and the cannibalism.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 10, 2013

As a primate primer for the younger end of the family market, Chimpanzee does a good job of inspiring awe in our closest cousins and doesn't stint on harsh "circle of life" lessons ...

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 5, 2013

The presentation makes one wince, and the most striking footage is some behind-the-scenes shots that accompany the credits.

| May 5, 2013

Chimpanzees share 96 per cent of our DNA and a common Pan Prior ancestry. We'll bet they're embarrassed to admit as much when they see this.

| Original Score: 2/5 | May 5, 2013

With no sign of Tarzan there's little genuine drama in Chimpanzee and this film probably won't save any rainforests, but it's heartfelt, beautifully shot and you'll never use a nutcracker without thinking of little Oscar.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 4, 2013

Cuteness proximity alert! Cuteness proximity alert!

| May 3, 2013

Words (narration by Tim Allen) and syrupy music let it down but it's still great to watch.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 3, 2013

The final five minutes give location interviews with the hardworking camera crew, and this is the only time when this plasticky film comes alive.

| Original Score: 2/5 | May 3, 2013

Even by the standards of sentimental nature documentaries, Disney's Chimpanzee borders on the pathetic.

| May 2, 2013

The chimpanzees play to their stereotype in this charming documentary that's beautiful to watch and often funny, however Tim Allen's jovial voiceover can be rather irritating after a while.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 2, 2013

Clever editing enhances the drama, while time-lapse sequences and crystal-clear photography complete a captivating picture of jungle life.

| Original Score: 3/5 | May 2, 2013

Linfield and Fothergill, colleagues from the BBC Natural History unit, who worked together on the series Planet Earth, remain cheerful throughout. Their passion for Mother Nature shines through in every frame.

| Original Score: 7/10 | Apr 30, 2013

Scenes of chimps bending and weaving tree-branches to create makeshift beds, or the touching moments of Oscar's first attempt to climb a tree unaided will provoke wonder and fascination in adults and children alike.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Apr 30, 2013

Gives us a hero to root for, but it's not coy on the tougher side of the natural world either.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Apr 28, 2013