The Wild Robot Will Ruin You

As a lifelong cinema enthusiast and connoisseur of animated films, I must say that “The Wild Robot” has left an indelible impression upon me. It is not just a film about a robot finding its place in the world; it’s an artistic exploration of the boundaries between nature and technology, warmth and coldness, and above all, love.


In simpler terms, these fantastic animated family movies not only convey compelling narratives but also creatively visualize the stories in a way that sparks our creativity. The medium offers immense freedom, so to use it merely for storytelling without exploring its artistic potential seems like an unnecessary waste, even a mistake. Chris Sanders’s adaptation of “The Wild Robot,” from Peter Brown’s children’s book, has a familiar premise and a heartwarming tale that feels comforting. However, upon closer examination, the movie reveals a whole new universe waiting to be explored, much like appreciating a painting.

The robot being discussed is ROZZUM unit 7134, voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, a diligent android set in a dense forest on a secluded island, far from civilization. This character, later named Roz, showcases sharp lines and sleek finishes, contrasting starkly with the hand-drawn animation of her natural surroundings. Sanders, renowned for his role in creating Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, employs a similar technique to create a visual tension that subtly reinforces the film’s central theme. This contrast is captivating and thought-provoking.

In the wonders of nature, Roz finds companionship among various animals, offering to aid them with chores such as cleaning and gardening. She has an extraordinary ability to imitate their actions and, upon switching to “learning mode,” she grasps their languages. With a cheerful persistence, she proposes to elevate their lives through comprehensive task assistance. However, the deer, bears, possums, and birds don’t seem to require her help.

Roz finds herself unexpectedly caring for a newborn goose when no other family is present. Initially, she safeguards the egg from a cunning fox named Fink (Pedro Pascal). Later, with Fink’s help, who seems like an outcast in this animal realm, she nurtures the hatchling, which we later know as Brightbill (voiced by Kit Connor). As Brightbill matures into a peculiar gosling that can’t fly and walks and talks like a robot, he perceives Roz as his mother despite being seen as a strange monster by other animals.

In the movie, the visual and auditory journeys complement each other beautifully. Lupita Nyong’o’s portrayal of a robot subtly evolves from mechanical precision to something that seems almost human, though still retaining an inhuman quality. This is accentuated by hints of warmth that make it easy for viewers to empathize and project emotions onto the character. This emotional transformation is deeply moving and occurs in the fascinating realm where organism and mechanism intersect.

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2024-09-09 02:53