1 out of 5 stars
As the pandemic impacts the film industry and with the introduction of the Disney+ streaming platform, Disney Animation Studios have been struggling to find its feet in cinemas. Even the ever-consistent Pixar has yet to regain its animation market dominance; the latest animation powerhouse entry is Strange World. While paying homage to the science-fiction classics of years gone by, the studio tries to rediscover its audience.
Jaeger Clade (Dennis Quade) epitomises the explorer that we all have celebrated over the years in cinema. He and his son, Searcher (Jake Gyllenhaal), live in Avalonia, surrounded by mountains that beckon the men to find a way to the other side. As they lead their team to the world beyond their country, the younger Clade discovers a plant that he later calls Pando. This energy-infused creation inspires Searcher to head back to their homeland to see how it can impact their people. Yet, his father decides to continue through the mountains to do what he was meant to do: discover new worlds. As they part ways, the two men lead journeys that will keep them apart for 25 years.
Searcher goes on to revolutionise Avalonia by introducing this powerful energy source, while Jaeger is never heard from again. One day the nation’s leader, Callisto Mal (Lucy Liu) arrives at the Clade farm to inform his family that Pando is under threat by an unknown blight. This leads the former explorer to leave the farm and head to the planet's core to investigate the root of the problem. As the team heads into the subterranean world, they discover that Searcher’s son, Ethan (Jaboukie Young-White), and their dog Legend have stowed away for the adventure. A journey that leads the group to unexpected discoveries and inhabitants that will bring the story full circle.
Disney Studios can claim that they are willing to venture into new worlds of animation and social commentary without abandon. Despite the brief throwback to classic animated techniques, the computer-animated process continues to develop and set new standards for quality storytelling. This element continues to be the aspect that makes this film stand out beyond most within this genre. While the theatrical arc is reminiscent of Journey to the Center of the Earth and brings the cast of The Day After Tomorrow back together, the messaging points to a modern construct.
This tale of adventure does not shy from the conservation mantra that has come to define this time in history. There is a dark force impacting this world. Still, there is no antagonistic character within the screenplay until the writers finally vilify all of humanity and add in a less-than-subtle anti-fossil fuel theme. Along with this contemporary aspect comes the now familiar same-sex trope that has come to define most Disney productions. Not that these components are a surprise, but as each gets piled on through the story, it may make the audience wonder who the target is for this animated journey. Despite the ground-breaking animation, more must be done to make this a fun or entertaining choice for families.
Strange World includes the artistic creativity that has defined this animation studio over the past 100 years. Yet, the messaging fails to reflect the family-centeredness of Disney. Most families may wonder what has happened to this production company as they seem to have lost their way. Especially as they attempt to appeal to every faction of society while forgetting who they are trying to entertain.
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REEL DIALOGUE: What does it mean to be a father to your children?
'Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.' Psalm 127:3-5
If Strange World does anything, it provides multiple opportunities to discuss the value of fathers. While no example within this film is perfect, that should not undermine the importance of dads in their children's lives.
One aspect of fatherhood that tends to get overlooked is that it is not only a responsibility, but it is a privilege. Children are indeed a blessing. It can be hard to remember this during the early morning feedings or the latest car smash. Still, these incidental things should not diminish their gift in our lives.
Fathers need to consider this opportunity an honour and do all that can be done to be the men our children need us to be. Some days are more complicated than others, but thankfully the Bible gives us the instruction manual to help to mould our children. Then prayer provides the comfort to watch over them in all situations.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" - Joshua 24:15
