The Summer movie blockbuster season was skipped this year. Since theaters have been closed since March, movie studios are looking at alternatives for releasing new features. Walt Disney Pictures has once again turned to Disney+ for the release of one of their newest offerings, The One and Only Ivan. As the release dates for upcoming projects shift and audiences across the globe are in need of new content to enjoy, Disney hopes The One and Only Ivan will help fill the void.
This movie is based on the 2012 children’s novel of the same name, which in turn was inspired by real-life events of a captive silverback gorilla named Ivan. The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming story that deals with the tough theme of being dealt a difficult hand in life, as seen through the eyes of animals. The novel has won multiple awards, including the prized Newbery Medal literary award for children’s literature. Disney announced plans to adapt the book into a film back in 2014, and started production for the film in 2018. Although plans for a theatrical release have been significantly changed, the film will be released on Disney+ on August 21.
The story follows Mack (Bryan Cranston), who is down on his luck. His once-famous Big Top Mall circus is failing to bring in the crowds and is in desperate need of a miracle. The show’s main star, a gorilla named Ivan (voiced by Sam Rockwell), is struggling to make sense of his drop in popularity and believes the recent downturn in attendance could be his fault. Surrounded by Stella (Angelina Jolie) a wise and gentle elephant, Snickers (Helen Mirren) the elegant poodle, and Bob the Dog (Danny Devito), Ivan hopes to find a way to bring new life into the gang of old circus performers. It isn’t until the arrival of the adorable new baby elephant Ruby (Brooklynn Price) where things really begin to change.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, so it is no surprise that the acting is one of the standout elements found in this movie. Nearly all of the characters are (understandably) CGI animals, yet the grounded voice-acting performances help those characters feel real. Bryan Cranston does a wonderful job portraying the enthusiastic ring leader and was perfectly cast for the role. His portrayal gives Mack a gravitas relatable to the audience.
The production value of the film is top-notch, with life-like CGI animals and detailed sets taking center stage. Animals are tricky to design properly, and if done wrong can pose a major distraction for audiences. Thankfully this is not the case with this film and the realistic look of the animals helps drive the story forward, not take away from it.
What stands out the most in this film is that there is no evil businessman trying to take the circus down, or sneaky thieves attempting to steal any animals away from the show. Instead, the film focuses on the idea of how cruel the world can be through character backstories and exposition. This was a refreshing take compared to other corny villain tropes that are often found in family-oriented films.
While the acting and heartfelt story help keep this movie up at an enjoyable level, not everything is perfect. The first act of the film is clunky and drags a bit until Rosie enters the picture, and there are several story clichés that seem all-too-familiar in family movies. Thankfully, these small hiccups aren’t dealbreakers.
Does The One and Only Ivan deliver a satisfying summer movie that the entire family can enjoy?
Disney’s latest offering is sure to be a hit in many households due to its heartfelt story, solid performances, and, at times, comedic dialogue. This is a film about family, inspiration, and doing what is right no matter what the cost is. It also brings up some wonderful talking points that can be had with kids about what it means to be free to live and help those in need.
While The One and Only Ivan doesn’t take audiences anywhere they haven’t been before, the film hits nearly every mark to be a successful summer family flick. With theaters closed (at least in California for the foreseeable future), this is a great option for a movie night at home. It’s quite possible that this film might do better as a streaming option than it could have at the theaters.
https://youtu.be/I-uIQDRS4a8
The One and Only Ivan Premieres on Disney+ Friday, August 21st.
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Let’s Hear From You
Are you interested in The Only and Only Ivan on Disney+? What did you think of the trailer above? With movie theaters closed in most parts of the country, do you think more movies should premiere on streaming services? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
