Over the Hedge

RJ is a crafty raccoon who knows how to work a plan and a hungry stomach. He ropes together a mismatched band of forest neighbors, Verne the slow talking turtle Hammy the jittery hamster and Stella the skunk, with dreams of tasting fresh food from a neighborhood that has just woken up after hibernation. The goal is simple to raid the suburban pantry and help settle a debt, but the question is whether this unlikely crew will survive the clash between wild instinct and human routines. As they cross manicured lawns dodge sprinklers and squeaky gates, they learn that trust and family can matter more than a quick meal while humor keeps the danger at bay. For families and friends.

Directed by Tim Johnson and Karey Kirkpatrick, Over the Hedge was DreamWorks Animation's mid 2000s family comedy. The film adapts an original screenplay with voice talent led by Bruce Willis and Garry Shandling, backed by ensemble and seasoned talent worldwide.

Box office for Over the Hedge was strong, helping DreamWorks solidify its place in family entertainment. The film found audiences across ages with its humor and fast paced visuals translating well on big screens across many countries and home video.

Over the Hedge contributed to a wave of CGI animal comedies that mix slapstick with suburban satire. Fans remember RJ's schemes and Hammy's rapid fire energy, but the film also touched on cooperation between unlikely friends and the idea that home is where family gathers, not just where you sleep.

Critics praised the film for its brisk pacing, voice work, and crisp humor, while noting its warm emotional core. The central themes focus on responsibility, loyalty, and the frictions between nature and developing communities, delivering a family friendly message without cloying sentiment. Audiences walk away smiling, with sense of adventure.