As a parent and a longtime admirer of Studio Ghibli’s magical storytelling, I found myself utterly captivated by DreamWorks Animation’s latest offering, “The Wild Robot.” The film’s visual style, reminiscent of a Monet painting set in Miyazaki’s enchanting forest, was nothing short of breathtaking. Yet, it was the voice work by Lupita Nyong’o and Pedro Pascal that truly stole the show. Their performances were heartfelt, emotional, and surprisingly expressive, making these animated characters feel more real than ever.
Taking your kids to the theater is honestly one of the best things about being a parent, especially for those of who are incredibly passionate about all things cinema. While taking my kids to see Inside Out 2 on the big screen was one of my favorite memories from the 2024 movie schedule, I recently had an even better experience taking my daughter to see The Wild Robot, which is easily one of the best DreamWorks Animation movies.
For quite some time now, we’ve been discussing “Inside Out 2”, and rightfully so, given its massive success at the box office and its ability to captivate both adults and children with its compelling narrative. However, I urge you not to miss out on “The Wild Robot” – a film that TopMob’s review has hailed as the best animated movie of 2024. If you’ve been hesitant about watching it, let me guide you through this captivating and emotional animated film and discover why it’s a must-watch for parents.
And don’t worry, there aren’t any major spoilers…
The Wild Robot Is One Of Those Great Animated Movies That Caters To All Audiences
Many people, including myself, often say it, but “The Wild Robot” really stands out as one of those exceptional animated films suitable for all viewers. If you’re searching for an excellent movie to enjoy with your children, then look no further. Critics have been moved to tears and have labeled it a memorable DreamWorks production for quite some time. Much of its appeal comes from director Chris Sanders skillfully striking the right balance while adapting Peter Brown’s cherished books.
During the film, my child (who accompanied me to an early viewing) and I found ourselves frequently giggling, shedding tears, and completely captivated by the movie’s enchantment. On our way home, we discussed the movie and concurred that it managed to keep us fully engaged without ever becoming tedious or overwhelming.
The Movie Perfectly Captures The Essence Of Parenthood And Family In General
Once I caught a glimpse of the trailer for The Wild Robot, particularly Roz (Lupita Nyong’o) forming an attachment with a young gosling, I sensed the film would beautifully portray the heart of parenthood. And it does exactly that.
Chris Sanders’ new film delicately balances the joys and challenges of parenthood without sugarcoating either. As I watched, I found myself reflecting on my own parent-daughter journey – the highs and lows we’ve shared, the memorable conversations, good and bad, and the incredible transformation I’ve witnessed as she evolved from a fan of Frozen into our family’s resident Studio Ghibli connoisseur. Such a film that stirs such emotions is certainly hitting the mark.
The Animation Style Took My Breath Away
One aspect I appreciate in some contemporary DreamWorks Animation productions is their unique approach to art direction, which transcends the usual boundaries of computer-generated imagery (CGI) movies. Unlike a more photorealistic or Pixar aesthetic, films such as “The Bad Guys” and “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish” employ a style reminiscent of an imaginatively imperfect hand-drawn children’s book illustrations. This artistic choice is also evident in “The Wild Robot”.
At CinemaCon 2024, Chris Sanders referred to the movie’s visual style as “a Monet painting in a Miyazaki forest,” and that comparison truly encapsulates it. While watching the film, I couldn’t help but feel that it embodied the genius of Hayao Miyazaki yet carried an impressionist flair. Regardless of your fondness for Studio Ghibli classics, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate the movie’s vibrant aesthetic.
The Voice Work By Lupita Nyong’o And Pedro Pascal Is Some Of The Best In Years
Starting from the highest to the lowest, the voice actors skillfully bring the diverse characters in The Wild Robot to life, making these animated beings seem like real, vital creatures (and robots). This is particularly noticeable with Lupita Nyong’o and Pedro Pascal, who headline as Roz and Fink respectively. To be frank, I would venture to say that the vocal performances are among the finest I’ve heard in quite some time.
Lupita Nyong’o gives an outstanding performance as a deserted robot seeking understanding of her surroundings and purpose in life, offering a powerful emotional journey that brings warmth to the film. Similarly, Pascal’s depiction of a cunning fox ostracized from animal society is remarkably expressive, showcasing an unexpected level of vulnerability and grit that surpassed my expectations.
While The Movie Touches On Some Heavy Topics, It Does So With Great Empathy And Concern
Movies intended for children often tackle profound themes such as death, loneliness, and the repercussions of one’s actions, even when they stem from good intentions; The Wild Robot is a part of this category.
The recently released DreamWorks Animation movie delves into themes such as death and devastation, albeit sensitively and thoughtfully. While it touches upon these subjects, it’s done in a manner that is subtle enough for young viewers like my daughter to grasp the underlying messages, without causing undue distress or sadness.
The film subtly touches upon environmental issues like climate change and human influence on nature through technology, yet avoids appearing didactic or politically biased. It raises these themes without overwhelming the viewing experience, allowing viewers to contemplate them if they choose.
Make Sure You See This With Your Kids Because It Could Be A Great Bonding Experience
It’s clear that “The Wild Robot” is a film that truly shines when watched together with your child. While I would have found it enjoyable on my own at the cinema, sharing this heartfelt tale about parenting and unusual families with my daughter made the experience even more memorable and one of my favorite films of the year. It was indeed a moving and beautiful adventure that I won’t forget anytime soon.
Hopefully, this helps you make a decision on seeing The Wild Robot, a movie I think we’ll be talking about for a very long time. And if the movie is a success, maybe we’ll be adding a sequel to the list of upcoming book-to-screen adaptations sooner or later. The film arrives in theaters this Friday, September 27.
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2024-09-30 02:07