Alvin and the Chipmunks (film) (Johnsonverse)

Alvin and the Chipmunks is a 2008 American live-action/traditionally animated musical comedy film directed by Tim Hill. Based on the characters of the same name created by Ross Bagdasarian Sr., the film stars Ross Bagdasarian Jr. and Janice Karman, with David Cross, Jason Lee, Jane Lynch, and Amy Poehler in supporting roles.

It was released worldwide on December 12, 2008, by Johnson Studios. The film received positive reviews for its script and characters, with David Cross's performance receiving praise. Alvin and the Chipmunks grossed $361 million worldwide on a budget of $60 million and was the seventh-best-selling DVD of 2009.

Alvin and the Chipmunks is the first live-action/animated film starring Alvin and the Chipmunks since Little Alvin and the Mini-Munks was released in 2003, as that film features puppetry used for the Chipmunks and this film features computer animation used for them. The film was followed by two sequels: Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Chipettes (2011) and Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip (2015).

Plot
In the prologue, a hooded figure carrying a basket struggles to make it through the harsh winter. She finds a cabin, places the basket on the doorstep, and knocks on the door before running off. A man, revealed to be Dave Seville (Ross Bagdasarian Jr.), looks at the basket, finding three baby chipmunks (Bagdasarian for Alvin and Simon, and Janice Karman for Theodore) and a note.

Eight years later, Dave and the Chipmunks get ready for their latest performance, but Alvin annoys him, Simon and Theodore with his antics. When the Chipmunks go on stage, they sing a modernized rendition of their latest hit single "Witch Doctor". Alvin, however, ruins the performance when he accidentally knocks Simon and Theodore off the stage with his guitar.