Welcome back to the blog readers. As you know, I am not a big fan of animated films because I am not the target demographic for these types of films. Like I have previously stated, I am not a fan of the gimmick of the animated film. But this year alone, I have seen more animated films than my usual one a year, with those films being Inside Out 2 and Transformers One (both 2024). So what would I think about my third animated film of the year? Stick around to find out.
The Wild Robot was written and directed by Chris Sanders, based on the book of the same name by Peter Brown. The film features the voices of Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, BIll Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Catherino O'Hara, Matt Berry, and Ving Rhames. In the film, a ROZZUM robot that gets shipwrecked on an uninhabited island must adapt to its surroundings, build relationships with the animals on the island, and become the adaptive mother of an orphaned goose.
Like I said, this was my third animated film of the year, in a very strong year for animation. With a bunch of high-profile animated films still on the way, this could be a big year for animation, maybe the biggest ever. I have been getting excited for this film and the trailers and high positive reception have gotten me to go see the film. So with that being said, I am here to tell you guys that this film is utterly brilliant. From the gorgeous animation to endearing performances to the gut-punch emotional story and themes, this film has a real chance to win a lot of awards.
I first need to start by talking about the voice performance of Lupita Nyong'o. Nyong'o has quickly become one of my favorite people in the industry, and I love watching her delve into great and interesting characters. From her role in the MCU to Us (2019), I have loved her in everything she has been in, including this. Not many people have the ability to infuse a character that is not supposed to have emotion with emotion, and that is exactly what Nyong'o does in this film. That soft-as-ribbons voice she has blends perfectly with the character and leads to a character that is both complex and easy to fall in love with. If there was an award for voice acting, Nyong'o would be the frontrunner.
Another voice that I want to commend is that of Pedro Pascal. In the last 15 years, Pascal has been portraying some of the more iconic characters in film and television. From The Mandalorian (2019) to Game of Thrones (2011-19), Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017) to Wonder Woman 1984 (2021), Narcos (2015-17) to the upcoming Gladiator II (2024) and The Fantastic 4: First Steps (2025), Pascal is a busy, busy man. This character of Fink he plays in this film is so thought-out and complex with a voice and an energy that is sly as hell.
I am aware that I don't really comment on animation in an animated film, but I have to make special note of the animation of this film. This animation is beautiful and modern but simple enough to keep you invested and keep the illusion of the film being a painting up. Like seriously, it feels hand-painted, original, and an upgrade over anything that has come before it. If this isn't the most gorgeous animation I have ever seen, I have no idea what is to be honest with you. If there is some sort of award for animation style, this has to be one of the contenders.
Finally, we need to talk about the themes and story of this film. I definitely think one of the main themes of this film involves a sense of belonging, and that is something that I resonate with more than a lot of people would. I know what it feels like to want to belong but never do because of whatever situation. Another major theme is that of motherhood and how some people may or may not be prepared for the burden of motherhood. I know children are not ready to hear the conversation on motherhood yet, but it is a conversation they will be having. And the story is just as emotional as any live-action film as well. The way things turn out and how the story is told almost made me tear up to be honest.
To conclude my thoughts, The Wild Robot is a perfect blend of humor and emotion that looks and is beautiful thanks to endearing performances. Thank you all for reading, and I will see you for the next post.
Comments