The summer film season is rather slow in getting started--with the exception of a couple of films, but I believe we are approaching a barrage of summer fare that will satisfy the ardent film goer. When I saw the trailer of "UglyDolls", I was not wowed, however after viewing it, all's I can say is, the trailer didn't sell this film. The trailer was sappy, silly and appeared mindless, whereas the actual film was heartfelt, funny and with a message for all to learn from.
In the adorably different town of Uglyville, weird is celebrated, strange is special and beauty is embraced as more than simply meets the eye. Here, the free-spirited Moxy (Kelly Clarkson) and her UglyDoll friends including Ox (Blake Shelton), Uglydog (Pitbull), Wage (Wanda Sykes), Babo (Gabriel Iglesias), and Lucky Bat (Leehom Wang), live every day in a whirlwind of bliss, letting their freak flags fly in a celebration of life and its endless possibilities. In this all-new story, the UglyDolls will go on a journey beyond the comfortable borders of Uglyville. There, they will confront what it means to be different, stuggle with their desire to be loved, and ultimately discover that you don't have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.
Others to round out the cast are Nick Jonas as Lou, Janelle Monae as Mandy, Natalie Martinez as Meghan, Stephen Zimpel as Michael, Lizzo as Lydia, Jane Lynch as Scanner, Bebe Rexha as Tuesday and Charli Xcx as Kitty.
This was directed with heart by Kelly Asbury ("Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron" '02, "Shrek 2" '04, "Gnomeo & Juliet" '11, "Smurfs: The Lost Village" '17, "Laidbackers" (collaborating director) '19). The emotions these characters exuded were real, yet at the same time will entertain any child--or adult for that matter. The UgltDolls definitely came across as typical victims of bullying or underdogs which is what these characters depict. Considering the resume of this filmmaker, it should be no surprise that he could direct such familiar work. It was surprisingly well written by newcomer to writing, Alison Peck, based on a story by Robert Rodriguez. Even though the idea came from a filmmaker, Rodriguez, that has written more than one screenplay, it was still written by Peck who executed an amazingly well thought out script. Was it perfect? Absolutely not. There were some slowness issues and a bit of choppiness, but all in all, this storyline soared! I am eager to see what Peck will write next, this is her first--and there will undoubtedly be a next one. The message she was able to convey as an entertaining approach was brilliantly executed and will be truly effective to the children and their parents alike. This is the epitome of the old adage: "beauty is in the eye of the beholder".
This is the quintessential family film replete with heart, redemption, humor, adventure and connection all rolled up in a film for all to see. I was surprisingly shocked how effective this was since I assumed it would be a strain to get through. Wow, I was way off! Also, the original music by Christopher Lennertz and Glenn Slater were effective, catchy in their arrangements and lyrics and entertaining adding to the enhancement of the story. I actually wouldn't mind purchasing the soundtrack. Anyone who either has been bullied or even has bullied others can learn from this. Enjoy this little gem--I know I did.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 87mins.
No comments:
Post a Comment