When I first came across this movie, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Based on the book by Peter Brown, this feature animated film is directed by Chris Sanders. This film’s plot is fairly simple, though it has gotten lots of love for its sweet story and underlying themes. The art style and visuals are what stood out to me; it was all very appealing and fun to look at. Though if it weren’t for this, as well as the fun personalities of the characters, I don’t think this would be anything special—or really anything at all. Since the plot is simple, the characters and visuals make up for it. Without this, there’s not much to enjoy.
It starts with a helper robot named Roz, who is washed onto an island after a cargo shipwreck—an island with wild animals and no civilization. Roz begins to communicate with the animals there, as she is programmed to help whoever she can. She tries her best to assist them, but it doesn’t go so great. And later on, while adventuring on the island, Roz is intrigued by a goose egg she discovered. And it’s her task to take care of the runt baby goose, Brightbill.
She learns about the survival life of animals and how it requires more than just the information she stored with. Roz grows close with her animal friends. And since Brightbill didn’t get to grow up like the others of his kind, Roz must teach him how to swim and fly so he and the other geese can migrate for winter.
There isn’t too much to say on the negative side, though I still find it has weaknesses. Like the pacing was slow, mainly at the beginning. It takes a while for the story to really get going. At first, I was honestly bored and hoping for something more. But on the other hand, a positive is that it’s easy to follow, thoughtful, and full of good messages, which I guess makes it a good family film. Another thing is that the characters each have their own unique and entertaining personality, which is what I enjoy most.
All together, I think The Wild Robot is a decent movie, though not as groundbreaking as some have claimed. But if you’re looking for something heartfelt and easy to enjoy, this movie is worth a watch.
