Eddie Murphy’s performance is the anchor of the film. By this stage in his career, Murphy had mastered the art of playing the "straight man" to a chaotic ensemble of CGI and live-action animals. His chemistry with the various creatures—voiced by stars like Steve Zahn, Lisa Kudrow, and Norm Macdonald—provides a layer of wit that appeals to adults, while the slapstick humor keeps younger audiences engaged. The film manages to balance Murphy’s comedic energy with a genuine sense of urgency regarding the destruction of natural habitats.