Little Miss Dolittle

"Little Miss Dolittle," originally titled 'Liliane Susewind', is a endearing family film released in 2018, offering a fun and wholesome viewing experience for audiences of all ages. The film sees charismatic performances from a talented cast including Peri Baumeister, Aylin Tezel, and Meret Becker, whose stellar performances enrich the film’s narrative. Directed by Joachim Masannek, this German production showcases a unique aspect of family genre movies by combining children's literature, fantasy and animal adventure.

The film is set around the extraordinary life of an 11-year-old girl named Liliane Susewind, portrayed by Malu Leicher. This little girl possesses a special, yet unusual, ability that sets her apart from the other kids - she can speak to animals. This extraordinary gift, however, is a well-guarded secret, due to the trouble it has caused in the past. Peri Baumeister plays the role of Liliane's caring mother, with Meret Becker appearing as a strong figure in Lynne's life. Aylin Tezel, meanwhile, offers a compelling performance as a character who becomes intricately connected with Liliane's fascinating journey.

The plot is set into motion as a series of strange happenings ensues at the local zoo, right after the Susewind family moves to the new town. With the theft of a baby elephant, suspicions inevitably arise, casting a cloud over her father, who works at the zoo. Armed with her unique gift, bubbly spirit, and a sense of justice, it is up to Liliane to protect her family and resolve the mystery.

Her adventures bring her closer to many new faces, both animals and humans. Special bonds are formed, challenges are overcome, and valuable life lessons are learned, shaping the core of the story. With the support of her loyal dog, a quirky parrot, and her newfound friend Jess, played by Aaron Kissiov, the film takes the audience on an exciting, cheer-filled expedition, combining elements of thrills and heartwarming moments.

“Little Miss Dolittle” provides an intricately nuanced exploration of its lead character. The young Liliane isn't portrayed as a larger-than-life hero, but as a normal girl who often finds herself out of place due to her unusual abilities. It deals with her struggles with acceptance, identity, friendship, and the desire to fit into the world around her. This richly-layered character profile lends common ground for young audiences to relate to and engage with, deepening their connection with the film.

One of the highlights of the movie is the animation and that joyous vibe it exudes. Director Joachim Masannek and his team have managed to create lovable animal characters alongside human characters, thus building a vibrant world of verbal and non-verbal communication. The imbalance of this dynamic introduces comedic elements and humorous mishaps to lighten the mood, ensuring regular bouts of laughter throughout the run time.

Primary themes like family, loyalty, courage, friendship, and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness effortlessly weave through the plotline. Such themes contribute to the thoughtful portrayal of character relationships and the decisions these characters make in different situations.

Furthermore, the film’s visuals are spectacular. Beautiful sceneries and soft lighting add radiance to the screen, captivating the audience's attention against the backdrop of the wholesome narrative. The visual design team deserves credit for their exemplary work in creating consistent atmosphere and aesthetics, enhancing the viewing experience.

From its gorgeous cinematography to its rhythmic background score, the film fires on all cylinders, subtly building up the narrative and releasing it at the perfect moments. The score successfully underscores the mood of the film, and every piece of music seems custom-fit to the scenes, enhancing the viewing experience.

"Little Miss Dolittle" is a delightful family film that’s just as engaging for adults as it is for younger audiences. The movie is more than an ordinary children's adventure; it offers a heartening tale of bravery and self-acceptance, providing an unforgettable cinematic experience. This charming film successfully conveys a powerful message, encouraging viewers to embrace their individuality and difference, which makes it a highly engaging, entertaining, and heartfelt movie worth a watch.