ALIENS IN THE ATTIC

RYAN: The new movie “Aliens in the Attic” is a family film starring Ashley Tisdale of “High School Musical” fame, and Kevin Nealon.

CAROLINE: How random. I had no idea he was in this movie. Which I, of course, did not see. The title alone sent me running for the hills. So is Kevin the dad?

RYAN: Yes. It’s a totally cheesy movie, but cute. He and Ashley are both supporting characters. It’s more of an ensemble film, which also has Doris Roberts, who’s very funny, as the grandmother. For the first half I felt like I had to force myself to stay in my seat, but by the end, I realized I was entertained and I kind of liked it. Plus, it’s short. Kids will love it because the aliens are funny and clumsy.

CAROLINE: So let me guess – it’s about a group of kids, siblings perhaps, who find out they have aliens living in their attic?

RYAN: Close, but no. This family goes on vacation to a house, and there’s a meteor shower whereupon aliens land in their attic and declare war on the human race. They can control people with these little video game devices; but only adults, not kids. So it’s up to the kids to save the day.

CAROLINE: How’s the Tiz?

RYAN: She’s fine; her part isn’t huge. But the dude who plays her boyfriend, Robert Hoffman, who we dug in “Step Up 2 the Streets,” has a dance background which really serves him well here. His physical comedy almost reminded me of Jim Carrey. He’s a total scene stealer.

CAROLINE: Can adults enjoy this movie or is really just for the kiddies?

RYAN: There’s no potty humor, which is a relief. It doesn’t pander to children, and it’s not totally juvenile because the kids in the movie are all teens or ‘tweens. Plus it’s got action and effects that people of all ages can appreciate.

— BOTTOM LINE —

RYAN: It’s cute enough, but more of a rental; especially with huge movies like “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” still in theaters. But it’s not bad. It’s for the audience of movies like “The Goonies” and “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead.” I enjoyed it, and I think my niece and nephew would love it.

— RATING —