THE BOB'S BURGERS MOVIE

It's not new for an animated television show to debut a feature film on the big screen in the middle of its run. The Simpsons and South Park, two of the most successful shows, have both done it and flourished. Now it's the turn of Bob's Burgers to make the move and it definitely goes all out in making sure it's a memorable outing for the Belcher family.

A ruptured water main creates an enormous sinkhole right in front of Bob's Burgers, blocking the entrance indefinitely and ruining the Belchers' plans for a successful summer. While Bob (H. John Benjamin) and Linda (John Roberts) struggle to keep the business afloat, the kids try to solve a mystery that could save their family's restaurant. As the dangers mount, these underdogs help each other find hope as they try to get back behind the counter.

Having seen just the three out of the twelve seasons of the show itself, there was a danger that the film would be full of characters and references I hadn't got to yet. While that was the case in some aspects, The Bob's Burgers Movie is still an incredibly fun and uplifting cinematic experience that provides plenty of laughs throughout. These are characters, both familiar and new to me, who are a delight to spend time with so watching them get up to all kinds of trouble is an utter joy.

One of the biggest surprises was the film having musical numbers scattered throughout, something that brings another dimension to the fun of it all once you get into them. As much fun as they were though, the South Park movie definitely did them better. Loren Bouchard and Nora Smith have written a truly hilarious comedy that puts the family front and centre with a heartwarming feeling surrounding the whole thing. The Belcher family always have a bit of bad luck yet they strive like no other family to get through it all, the narrative hilariously emphasising their flaws as much as their strengths. 

Characters are split-up and it gives the story a chance to breathe as well as the respective characters the chance to shine more, particularly the kids. As mentioned, there's some nice moments between the family but the absurdity of some of the gags between the family and their supporting cast is what makes this such a good time. Teddy is one of my favourite characters from the show and he had some moments that had me properly laughing.

While it may not reach the heights of the South Park film, The Bob's Burgers Movie is a great time out at the cinema and well worth watching if you enjoy the show. It's definitely not put me off watching the remaining seasons, that's for sure.

Verdict: ★★★½