Oct 302 min read

FILM REVIEW: THE WILD ROBOT (U) ESP RATING: 4.5/5

A visually emotional masterpiece.

The first thing that grabbed my attention when watching the trailer for The Wild Robot was the absolutely stunning visuals.

I immediately wanted to know more about how this animated film was made, and it turns out that the animation was crafted using a beautiful blend of traditional illustrated techniques and computer-generated imagery.

In an era where filmmakers often lean heavily on digital tools, it’s refreshing to see an approach that highlights the warmth of hand-drawn artistry. Each frame feels like it was lovingly designed, with rich textures and intricate details that bring the world to life. It’s a mesmerising visual experience that enhances the emotional depth of the story.

The film is directed by Chris Sanders, a name that should be familiar to fans of stories about unlikely friendships. Sanders, known for Lilo & Stitch and How to Train Your Dragon, once again explores the bond between human (or human-like) and animal, but this time in a completely different setting – an uninhabited island.

Based on Peter Brown’s beloved book series, The Wild Robot centres on Roz (voiced brilliantly by A Quiet Place: Day One star Lupita Nyong’o), a robot who unexpectedly wakes up on this deserted island. As she learns to navigate her new surroundings, Roz adopts a gosling and forms a friendship with a mischievous fox. While the premise might initially seem like familiar territory – another story of unlikely connections – it stands apart by carrying a much deeper emotional resonance.

The film delves into themes of survival, adaptation, and what it means to care for another being, even when you’re not programmed to do so. The Wild Robot doesn’t shy away from tackling heavy themes, either.

Without giving too much away, there are moments that hit hard, emotionally speaking. My six-year-old boy was in tears at one point, and I’ll admit, I too ‘had something in my eye’.

The film strikes a delicate balance between heartwarming and heartbreaking, and it prompted a thoughtful discussion on the ride home about love, loss, and responsibility.

Although it stirred some intense feelings, my child ultimately loved the movie, as did I.

Nyong’o’s voice work brings Roz’s character to life in a way that feels vulnerable and genuine, making it easy for the audience to connect with a robot’s emotional journey. And the supporting characters – particularly Fink the fox (voiced by Pedro ‘The Mandalorian’ Pascal) and other wildlife – add a layer of humour and warmth to the narrative, making the story accessible for viewers of all ages.

While no official sequels have been announced yet, I sincerely hope Sanders returns to adapt the remaining two books in Brown’s trilogy. The first film sets the stage for what could be an incredible series, with so much more to explore.

Because this is refreshingly a million miles away from being robotic – and should notch that Best Animation Oscar come awards season.

ESP Rating: 4.5/5

Mike Clarke