This action-packed adventure introduces a legendary family of explorers, the Clades including Jaeger Clade (Dennis Quaid), Searcher Clade (Jake Gyllenhaal), Ethan Clade (Jaboukie Young-White) and Meridian Clade (Gabrielle Union), as they attempt to navigate an uncharted, treacherous land alongside a motley crew that includes a mischievous blog that Ethan named Splat, a three-legged dog named Legend and a slew of ravenous creatures. Do they make it out of this strange land or are they trapped forever?
Others to round out the cast are Lucy Liu as Callisto Mal, Karan Soni as Caspian, Alan Tudyk as narrator/radio host/Lt. Duffle, Adelina Anthony as Pulk, Abraham Evenrubi as Lonnie Redshirt, Jonathan Melo as Diazo, Nik Dodani as Kardez, Francesca Reale as Azi Muth, Emily Kutoda as Ro and Reed Buck as Rory.
This was directed with a one two punch by Don Hall ("Big Hero 6" '14) and co-directed by Qui Nguyen. Hall is a main staple artist for Disney with a ton of animation work under his belt whereas he is developing into a talented director as well. With his knowledge of animation coupled with his newer ability of directing, he was able to create a stimulating connection with these different and eclectic characters. Even though Qui Nguyen has no other feature film experience, I'm sure his input was pivotal, especially being the writer of this. As just mentioned, this script was penned by Qui Nguyen ("Raya and the Last Dragon" '21, "The un-Princess not Bride" '21, She Kills Monsters" '22) plus TV and a short. Certainly, by his resume, he is more of a seasoned writer than being behind the camera, but in time and more work, that should change. This script is an incredibly well crafted one with a very fresh, original story--something that Disney, of late, isn't really known for. They typically have the tendency to go for remakes or something that's tried and true and easy and inexpensive to put together. So kudos to them for their willing to accept this premise. Really, the only thing I have an issue with about this story is the fact that the son, Ethan of Searcher has a sexual identity problem in that he is interested in his buddy Diazo. This typically wouldn't be an issue with me, however since this is an animated film rated PG that is targeted toward young and very young kids, I feel this, first of all, is inappropriate for a demographic that is in their formative years, and secondly, because of this, this wasn't an issue that was pivotal in order for this story to work. Disney also attempted this same tactic with "Lightyear", by inserting a kiss, albeit quick, but a kiss between two women in another animated rated PG film. It was somewhat controversial that it didn't garner the profits they were expecting. So, since Disney is woke, it seems like they just have to get political when it's not necessary. Nguyen did a great job with the story, otherwise and deserves kudos for that. I can't wait to see another film with his writing credit on it.
If you like original and freshness in a premise, this is the film for you. You be the judge if you want to let your very young child see this given the sexual identity issue within it. Otherwise, it does have a great message of families coming together after a difficult trek and reuniting realizing what their real priorities are. The creatures are amazingly original and wondrous.
Out of 4 Stars: 3.5 Rated: PG 101mins.
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