Alvin, Simon and Theodore are three squeaky-voiced critters who were first radio and recording stars 50 years ago. There seems little point, however, in resurrecting them here as computer-generated cuties. In this mostly live-action tale, Alvin and his chums become global singing sensations when the treeless trio are given a home by songwriter Jason Lee, who is amazed to discover their vocal talents. But they soon fall foul of an unscrupulous record label boss (David Cross). There is plenty of lowbrow slapstick, most of it targeting the hapless Lee, who definitely needs a better agent. Yet the chipmunks themselves are undeniably entertaining in their sweeter moments. This will provide an adequate distraction for the less discerning under-sixes, but the more discerning will quite rightly be watching SpongeBob SquarePants instead.

A struggling songwriter named Dave Seville finds success when he comes across a trio of singing chipmunks: mischievous leader Alvin, brainy Simon, and chubby, impressionable Theodore.