Hey DisneyPlus fans, Today, I’ve got something different—just bought this, and I’m all about Baby Yoda. I mean, seriously, who can resist that adorable little guy? But today, we’re diving into another Disney Plus original movie, and it's none other than “The One and Only Ivan.” First off, a huge shoutout to Disney for sending me the screener. Now, I need you in the comments—how excited are you for this movie hitting screens this Friday? Let’s get right into it.
So, we’re following a gorilla named Ivan on a quest to unravel his past, teaming up with an elephant named Stella as they plot an escape from captivity. The cast lineup is pretty stacked, with Bryan Cranston in the live-action role, and a voice cast that includes Sam Rockwell and Angelina Jolie. It’s a star-studded affair!
Now, let’s talk about the film. It surprised me more than I expected, and I have to say, it’s deeper than you might anticipate. Yes, it's a fantasy film with talking animals, but it touches on some real-world themes. The emotional depth caught me off guard, and it’s not your typical light-hearted flick.
But, diving into some drawbacks—yes, it does feel a bit formulaic. You can see where the story’s heading, and that predictability might disappoint some. There’s this sense of rushing through parts, especially in montages, where you wish they’d slowed down to let the narrative breathe.
Yet, the characters and their journey hit some powerful emotional beats. Despite the clichés and occasional lackluster CGI, the film carries a poignant message about finding purpose beyond what you initially perceive. It reminded me of a mix between the heartfelt themes of “Dumbo” and modern Disney storytelling.
- The One and Only Ivan (2020)
I wish it had been a full animated feature; it might have given more room to explore those deeper themes without feeling constrained. Still, for families, this is a winner. It’s a movie that balances adult-centric themes with a family-friendly approach.
My verdict? I’d rate it a solid 6 out of 10, a 60%. It’s not the best movie out there, but it’s a pleasant surprise, especially if you’re seeking a heartfelt family watch on Disney Plus. If you’re in need of something on the platform, “The One and Only Ivan” might just hit the spot.
Let me know in the comments below. And stay tuned for more reviews this week—we’ve got a lot coming up from Netflix, including “Lucifer” and something called “The Sleepover.” Lots to talk about!