I pretty much hated “Madagascar” and thought the film was incredibly boring and anything but funny, and although I knew DreamWorks Animation would squeeze out a sequel, I still hoped they would just let it go and start working on something new, without any talking animals.

But who’s going to listen to me, right? I know I am not the only one tired of goofy animals ruling the kingdom of 3D animation, but there’s still a large audience out there dying to see “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa,” which touches down in theaters Nov. 7, 2008.  

USA Today offered a first look at the upcoming family film earlier today, posting nine official stills on their Web site. In this second adventure, Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria try to make it back to New York but end up being stranded in Africa. Wow, doesn’t that sound a little familiar?

Anyway, I’ll walk into the flick with the lowest possible expectations, hoping to be surprised. Who knows, maybe they’ll find better things to do in Africa, although I seriously doubt it. Enjoy the first official pictures right HERE.