There’s a new movie out in theaters since Sept. 27, 2024, and that’s “The Wild Robot.” Adapted to film from Peter Brown’s book “The Wild Robot,” it has quickly become a hit. Let’s dive into what makes this movie so special.
Peter Brown is an author & illustrator of children’s books. He has many bestsellers, including “Mr. Tiger Goes Wild,” “Creepy Carrots,” “The Curious Garden,” “My Teacher Is a Monster,” and, most notably, “The Wild Robot” trilogy. This includes “The Wild Robot,” The “Wild Robot Escapes,” and “The Wild Robot Protects.” Peter Brown disclosed on Feb. 5, 2024, that he is working on a fourth book at this very moment.
Many children around the globe have fallen in love with his rich storylines and beautiful illustrations and have felt a special connection to Roz, the “wild” robot. It is not often that such a book becomes so well adapted to film, but this is one of those rare cases. The colors were magical, and the animations were smooth and perfectly fitting. With music that makes you feel, everything blends seamlessly and makes for a wonderful viewing experience.
The storyline follows a robot—ROZZUM unit 7134, “Roz” for short— as she navigates her new life after ending up on an island. Surrounded by nothing but trees and the creatures that live around them, she must learn how to navigate her surroundings and fulfill her task. In order to do that, she must first find her purpose and discover what she truly can bring to the world that lies beyond her code.
Production
Produced by DreamWorks Animation, and distributed by Universal Pictures, it’s no wonder the movie has quickly become a fan favorite.
As far as the cast goes, you can find many stars within the voices of Roz’s animal friends. Lupita Nyong’o, who played Nakia in “The Black Panther,” voices the main character, Roz. Actor Kit Connor, most recently known for his role in “Heartstopper,” voices the other main character, Brightbill. Pedro Pascal—who is the main character in “The Mandalorian,” a “Star Wars” spinoff— plays the snarky fox, Fink. Speaking of “Star Wars,” Mark Hamill—otherwise known as Luke Skywalker— voices Thorn, a grumpy bear. Another voice from a classic film is Bill Nighy, who can be heard voicing an elder duck, Longneck. Famously known for his role as Davy Jones in “The Pirates of the Caribbean,” many fans were delighted to hear his voice again.
Another actress, who takes the spotlight for a second time in recent films is Catherine O’Hara, who voices Pinktail. Famous in the “Home Alone” saga, “Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Beetlejuice,” this well-rounded actress comes back for more after just finishing up “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” Voice actor Axel Malzacher, who can be found voicing many Disney classics including “Inside Out,” “Coco,” “Ratatouille,” and “Big Hero Six,” is another member of this loaded cast. Last, but certainly not least, Ving Rhames from “Mission: Impossible” voices Thunderbolt, a bird of prey ready to teach Brightbill how to fly.
The Message
Overall, this movie contains several messages. One is shown through Roz’s adaptation to her new role as a mother. Roz provides an example of someone who isn’t exactly prepared for motherhood and takes you through some of the challenges she faces. By surrounding herself with community and leaning on others for support, she shows you that mothers, like anyone else, can do anything they put their minds to.
Continuing on the theme of growth, we get to watch Brightbill, Roz’s son, adapt to being different from those around him. Often teased for being the runt of the litter, he grows up unsure about his abilities. His mother is right there along with him helping every step of the way until he is able to go out on his own, and it is truly beautiful to watch.
While you could simply take my word for it, I highly encourage you to see this movie for yourselves in theaters. With a ninety-eight percent critics rating and a ninety-eight percent viewer satisfaction rate on Rotten Tomatoes, the numbers speak for themselves. This movie is truly a work of art, with dazzling colors and beautiful sounds, with heartfelt moments and character arcs that will be sure to leave you in tears.
