Fifteen years after their last big-screen outing, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore are back—and time hasn’t dulled their fur, their voices, or their appetite for chaos. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2025) wastes no time reminding us why these pint-sized pop sensations became a global phenomenon. From the very first guitar riff and squeaky harmony, the film bursts with an infectious energy that refuses to slow down.

This time, the Chipmunks trade stadium spotlights for the polished floors of a performing arts high school, a setting that opens the door to fresh comedic beats and plenty of musical showdowns. Director Walt Becker leans into the fish-out-of-water dynamic, letting the trio’s mischievous charm clash (and occasionally mesh) with the school’s fiercely competitive students. The result is a blend of musical exuberance and slapstick mayhem that keeps kids giggling and parents smiling.
Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney return to voice Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, slipping effortlessly back into their roles. Alvin is still the swaggering troublemaker, Simon remains the cerebral voice of reason (with a dash of sarcastic bite), and Theodore continues to be the pure-hearted glue holding his brothers together. The chemistry between the three is as tight as ever, their banter feeling natural despite the digital magic that brings them to life.

The real shake-up comes with the introduction of The Chipettes—Brittany, Jeanette, and Eleanor—voiced by Anna Kendrick, Hailee Steinfeld, and Dove Cameron. From their first entrance, they command the screen with equal parts sass and sweetness. Their vocal harmonies rival the boys’, and their spirited back-and-forth with the Chipmunks fuels the film’s best comedic moments. Whether trading quips in the cafeteria or going head-to-head in the talent show, the boys-meet-girls dynamic sparks both rivalry and reluctant camaraderie.
Musically, the film doubles down on catchy, radio-ready pop covers and original numbers that are tailor-made for singalongs. From high-energy mashups to stripped-down acoustic moments, the soundtrack is a constant driver of mood and momentum. The big talent show finale is a visual and sonic explosion—complete with glitter cannons, elaborate choreography, and enough squeaky charm to stick in your head for days.
But amid the musical fireworks, The Squeakquel (2025) finds time for heart. Themes of teamwork, self-confidence, and embracing individuality weave through the antics. Simon wrestles with the pressure to be perfect, Alvin learns that leadership is more than showmanship, and Theodore discovers his quiet courage in an unexpected way. The Chipettes face their own journey, proving they’re more than just “the girl version” of the boys.

Visually, the animation-tech blend has never looked better. Fur textures, lighting, and micro-expressions are rendered with stunning realism, making the Chipmunks and Chipettes feel tangible without losing their cartoonish whimsy. The school setting is equally vibrant, from sunlit practice rooms to neon-lit stages, each space brimming with detail.
The humor is squarely aimed at all ages. Kids will howl at the pratfalls, exaggerated reactions, and snack-related disasters, while adults will catch the wry references and sly asides tucked into the dialogue. The pacing never lingers too long in one spot—every scene either sets up a joke, a song, or a heartfelt beat.
If there’s a drawback, it’s that the story beats are predictable—you can spot the arc of rivalry-to-friendship a mile away. But predictability here feels less like a flaw and more like a warm blanket; this is comfort cinema, designed to leave audiences humming and happy.

By the final curtain, Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2025) delivers exactly what it promises: more music, more laughs, and more squeaks per minute than you thought possible. It’s a brightly wrapped gift of nostalgia and new energy, proving that even after all these years, the Chipmunks still know how to hit the high notes—and our hearts.