Odd Squad: The Movie

Gr 1–4—The movie version of the popular series capitalizes on puns and humor that will appeal to kids and adults. Using math skills, a group of preteen agents investigate odd happenings, but most viewers will barely notice they are learning while watching these talented and delightfully quirky characters. A new agency in town, the Weird Team, impinges on the Odd Squad's territory by using a gadget that seems to fix anything. The Weird Team is staffed by hapless adults, led by actor Jack McBrayer at his goofiest. After the Odd Squad is forced to disband and surrender headquarters to the Weird Team, agents Olympia and Otis discover that the newcomer's gadget doesn't really work but merely gives the illusion of functioning. Of course, the good guys prevail in the end, aided by mirrored suits and an ice-cream truck that transforms into a spaceship. The high quality of this production is evident from the slick special effects, impressive sets, and huge cast. A James Bond—type theme song sets the mood, and a humorous music video for "The Saddest Song in the World of All Time" shows how former agents deal with their lives post—Odd Squad.