Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted (2012)

New York stowaways Alex the lion (Ben Stiller), Marty the zebra (Chris Rock), Melman the giraffe (David Schwimmer) and Gloria the hippo (Pinkett Smith) are still trying to get back to the Big Apple. After an adventure across Africa, the quartet reach Monte Carlo, soon attracting the attention of animal control officer Chantel DuBois (Frances McDormand).

In their efforts to escape, the gang bundle onto a circus train, where they are met with disdain by a group of animal performers. After they manage to convince the circus critters they are Big Top talent, they hatch a crazy plan that will have them clowning and high-wiring all the way back to the US.

After a mixed reception for their first adventure the Madagascar franchise has built up some momentum and, by this third instalment, DreamWorks has its formula perfected. The series has always done well at the box office - bagging almost $2bn worldwide - but this is the first feature that brings a touch of drama alongside the laughs, and the balance is great.

The eminent voice cast show they know their wild alter-egos down to the last claw, hoof and horn, delivering wacky comedy that is consistently funny for both adults and kids.