MVP: Most Valuable Primate

MVP: Most Valuable Primate features an impressive lineup of young, talented stars and, of course, its main star - the amiable chimpanzee, Jack. The film, released in 2000 and directed by Robert Vince, is a light-hearted mix of comedy, family drama and sports film. It's a feel-good flick perfect for family viewings, especially for those who enjoy movies about exceptional animals pulling off unbelievable feats.

The movie introduces us to Jack, a chimpanzee who is much more than an ordinary primate. Jack has lived most of his life in a research lab, where he was part of a unique study that focused on teaching sign language to chimpanzees. His educator, Dr. Kendall, portrayed by the accomplished Kevin Zegers, nurtures a close bond with Jack, and under his tutelage, the chimp quickly learns signing and communication skills.

A sudden turn of events leads to the closure of Dr. Kendall's lab, forcing him to send Jack to a wildlife preserve. However, due to an administrative error, Jack instead winds up in Canada where he escapes from the transport vehicle.

This mistake provides Jack the chance to explore the world outside the lab’s confines for the first time, and he eventually finds refuge in the loving yet unwitting arms of Tara Westover (Jamie Renee Smith) and his brother Steven (Alex Doduk), two young kids who have recently lost their mother.

Jack quickly becomes a cherished member of the family, bringing not just chimp antics but also a sense of companionship to the Westover household. With Steven's dream of playing ice hockey with no hope in sight due to his poor eyesight and Tara's struggle with their mother's loss, Jack's arrival brings much-needed laughter and joy into their lives.

While adjusting to his new surroundings, Jack stumbles upon Steven's ice hockey equipment, which sparks an unexpected interest in the sport. The chimp does what he does best - mimic, learn and adapt. His antics on the ice draw local attention, and he soon becomes the town's sensation, eventually earning the nickname "Most Valuable Primate."

Director Robert Vince masterfully weaves elements of comedy, family bond, perseverance, and sportsmanship into a heart-warming narrative punctuated with moments of sheer hilarity and emotion.

Jack's ice hockey journey is a delight to watch as it beautifully fortified by Bernie, Louie, and Mac, who with their earnest and lively performances, lend the chimpanzee an engaging personality. Steven and Tara's struggles, which strike a balance between the joyous moments, are portrayed with honesty, reflecting the realities of coping with loss and dreams that seemingly remain unfulfilled.

MVP: Most Valuable Primate explores complex themes of family, loss, friendship, and acceptance in a way that is effortlessly accessible to a younger audience. It is a comedy-drama with undertones of inspirational sports film, making it an exciting watch for the whole family.

Film veterans Richard Karn and Lomax Study provide solid support with their performances. Sight gags, sign language humor, and chimp antics provide the comic relief, while the more intense moments instill in viewers a sense of empathy and relatability, making for an engaging, well-balanced cinematic experience.

The cinematography done by Mike Southon takes full advantage of the beautiful settings. From the picturesque Canadian outdoors to the animated hockey rinks, the visuals lend an appealing aesthetic dimension to the movie.

The story, written by Anne Vince and Robert Vince, expertly navigates the multifaceted narrative, transitioning smoothly from moments of hilarity to emotionally compelling instances without skipping a beat, encapsulating the essence of what family movies should entail.

MVP: Most Valuable Primate can be summarized as an enjoyable cinematic journey punctuated by laughter, comradery, ice hockey, and the heart-warming story of an extraordinary primate named Jack, whose actions teach lessons of persistence, compassion, and the power of friendship. All these elements make MVP: Most Valuable Primate a charm-filled family movie that leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll.