Watch: Mars Needs Moms

• Director: Simon Wells
• Writers: Simon Wells (screenplay), Wendy Wells (screenplay)
• Stars: Seth Green, Joan Cusack and Dan Fogler
• Release Date: March 2011
• Run Time: 88 min
• Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi

Mom needs a little space.

Based upon the novel by Berkeley Breathed, Mars Needs Moms, is a creative way to look at both what lies beyond our world in space and having a deeper appreciation for our mothers, even if they do make us do chores and eat vegetables. When Milo (Seth Green) witnesses his mother (Joan Cusack) being abducted by aliens, he chases after her only to be whisked away to Mars as well. There, he surprisingly meets another human being, Gribble (Dan Fogler), who explains that the Martians need nurturing mothers who also are firm with their children so they can harness those traits into their nanny bots. With the aid of a rogue Martian, Ki (Elisabeth Harnois), the race is on to save Milo’s mom before it is too late. Filmed with motion censor technology, the actors are thrust into their animated counterparts on screen delivering strong, heartfelt performances. The adaptation from book to screen is done in a graceful manner that promises one fun, thrilling adventure that is, I apologize for the corny joke, out of this world. While the 3D doesn’t really add anything special to the film, director Simon Wells is able to keep the audience engaged in the fast-paced action and swift, comedic dialogue that inevitably makes for a really enjoyable movie experience.