The world of animation often operates within a framework that audiences have come to anticipate — vibrant colors, a comic yet somewhat irritating sidekick, heart-stirring musical numbers, and a whirlwind of animated activity that dazzles the senses. These elements trigger expected reactions: laughter, excitement, and a subtle sense of fatigue. However, Chris Sanders’ latest animation film, “The Wild Robot,” adapted from Peter Brown’s cherished 2016 children’s novel, initially seems to align with these typical elements but ultimately transcends them with delightful surprises and new depths of creativity.
Sanders, known for his ability to evoke emotion and vivid worlds, leverages animation styles reminiscent of “Bambi,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” and the works of Japanese animation icon Hayao Miyazaki. The resulting visuals are not just colorful explosions; they are a feast for the eyes, each frame painted with loving precision that balances simplicity with underlying complexity. By choosing broad brush strokes over detailed minutiae, Sanders transports viewers to a different era of animation — one that invites the audience to engage with both the apparent simplicity and the hidden intricacies beneath.
The narrative kicks off when a service robot named ROZZUM 7134, or Roz, voiced by the talented Lupita Nyong’o, finds herself shipwrecked on an island devoid of human inhabitants. As she embarks on a quest to discover her purpose, Roz encounters a multitude of island creatures who initially respond with fear, labeling her a monster. Despite Roz’s acquisition of the animals’ language, her efforts to gain their trust and cooperation seem futile. Just as she contemplates activating her transponder to signal her return to the factory, fate intervenes. Roz finds herself adopting an orphaned gosling named Brightbill, voiced with endearing charm by Kit Connor, and commits to readying him for migration, marking the beginning of an unexpected yet heartwarming journey.
Within this island ecosystem, Roz encounters a host of colorful characters. Fink, a street-smart and clever fox portrayed by Pedro Pascal, becomes an unlikely ally. She also befriends Pinktail, an opossum with a flair for the dramatic, voiced by Catherine O’Hara, and Longneck, an elderly Canada goose offering sagely wisdom, brought to life by Bill Nighy’s distinguished voice.
. Thunderbolt, the powerful and proud peregrine falcon, is embodied by Ving Rhames, adding another layer of complexity to Roz’s interactions. Eventually, even the gruff grizzly bear Thorn, voiced by Mark Hamill, and an eccentric beaver with an ambitious goal to fell the island’s largest tree, Paddler (Matt Berry), begin to warm to Roz’s gentle presence.
“The Wild Robot,” at its core, offers more than just a riveting adventure tale. It explores themes of kindness, which Roz exemplifies as a key survival tactic, contrasting Fink’s belief in the island’s brutal survival code. The story also delves into notions of adoption and what it means to be a parent. Roz’s transformation is underscored when she almost acknowledges Brightbill as her son in a moment of gratitude towards Longneck, highlighting her evolving sense of familial connection and love.
The voice cast delivers exceptional performances, with Nyong’o bringing warmth and depth to Roz’s character, while Pascal effectively communicates Fink’s sly and quick-witted nature. Nighy’s performance resonates with gravitas, matched by Stephanie Hsu’s exuberant portrayal of Vontra, a retrieval robot. Berry’s rendition of Paddler adds a touch of humorous crabbiness, making the ensemble cast a cornerstone of the film’s appeal.
In terms of animation, Sanders and his team have crafted a world that is as enchanting as it is visually fascinating. The vivid depiction of natural elements — from the luscious canopy of leaves to the shimmering textures of moisture amid a wild thunderstorm — creates an impressionistic realm that invites audiences to explore and lose themselves. “The Wild Robot” enthralls, entertains, and tugs at the heartstrings in equal measure.
With news of an upcoming sequel, viewers have even more to look forward to as Roz’s story continues. “The Wild Robot” is currently captivating audiences in theatres, offering an engagement with animation that defies norms and touches the soul.
