Hoodwinked! (2005)

Hoodwinked! (2005) is a hilarious and inventive animated film that subverts classic fairy tales with a witty, fast-paced narrative. The plot centers around the theft of goody shop recipes by the elusive Goody Bandit, leaving numerous woodland creatures financially ruined. While the police are hot on the Bandit's trail, chaos erupts at Granny's house involving Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf, the Woodsman, and Granny herself – a chaotic collision of personalities that ultimately leads to their arrests by the exasperated Chief Grizzly. This seemingly simple setup cleverly unfolds through a nonlinear, multi-perspective storytelling structure, revealing surprising twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. Hoodwinked!'s place amongst the best animation movies is secure due to its unique blend of humor, clever writing, and innovative animation style. Beyond its engaging plot, the film showcases a distinct visual flair, employing a vibrant color palette and a distinctive character design. The multi-layered narrative, revealing the truth behind the events through different characters' viewpoints, demonstrates a sophisticated storytelling approach rarely seen in animated features of the time. This originality, coupled with its sharp wit and memorable characters, makes Hoodwinked! a truly exceptional and rewatchable animated film deserving of its acclaim.