Missing Link

Missing Link is a delightful 2019 animation film that is directed by Chris Butler and produced by Laika, the renowned American stop-motion animation studio known for its previous critically acclaimed films. This beautifully crafted film features the voice talents of award-winning actors such as Hugh Jackman, David Walliams, and Stephen Fry, alongside other notable names including Zoe Saldana, Timothy Olyphant, and Emma Thompson. Brimming with adventure, humor, and breathtaking visuals, Missing Link offers a charming, family-friendly cinematic experience.

Miss Link (Hugh Jackman) plays the part of Sir Lionel Frost, a charismatic and daredevil adventurer who doesn’t conform to the conventional norms of his time but instead seeks amazement, marvels, and wonders of the world. He immerses himself in studying myths and monsters with his entire heart and soul, which his high-society peers scornfully dismiss as a childish pursuit. Despite this, the unyielding Sir Lionel Frost carries the spirit of exploration and carries on with his unusual quest, all with an overarching objective to gain acceptance into the adventuring world's most premier club, helmed by Lord Piggot-Dunceb (Stephen Fry).

The main plot of Missing Link unfolds when Frost receives a letter intimating him about the existence of a legendary creature, who turns out to be the titular, Missing Link (Zach Galifianakis)- a cross between humans and apes, who had been forgotten by evolutionary science. Unlike his reputation as a petrifying monster, Big Foot- as he is known, is a thoughtful, sensitive, and surprisingly humorous creature who resembles a giant, hairy, humanoid teddy bear than a frightening monster.

Isolated, the Missing Link craves companionship in a world where his kind is extinct. He seeks Frost's help to find his distant relatives rumored to be living in a fabled valley known as Shangri-La. Thus begins a friendship leading to the formation of an unlikely trio when they are joined by the fearless but headstrong widow, Adelina Fortnight (Zoe Saldana), who possesses the only map to their secret destination. The plot thickens as they embark on their quest and find themselves up against various challenges and enemies who seek to stop them.

One of the most praise-worthy aspects of Missing Link is its stunning animation, a visible leap from what viewers have seen before from Laika. The level of detail, the photorealism combined with a stylised aesthetic, and the splendid world-building come together to create a visual spectacle. Every scene is crafted meticulously, offering the viewers creativity in its rawest form. The movie is peppered with brilliantly choreographed action sequences that are made more immersive with the cutting-edge stop-motion animation techniques.

The humor in Missing Link is both slapstick and profound, a perfect balance that keeps both the kids and adults entertained throughout. Besides, the characters are developed with depth and an emotional complexity, not often seen in animation films. While the movie is embedded with fun and light-heartedness at its core, it also touches on deeper themes like acceptance, friendship, and individuality.

Hugh Jackman takes command in delivering a flawless performance as the voice of Sir Lionel Frost, infusing the character with charm, bravery, and a believable dash of arrogance. Zach Galifianakis, as the Missing Link, provides a resounding depth to his character with a performance that is both hilarious and emotionally moving. Zoe Saldana, as Adelina Fortnight, offers a refreshing touch of strength and independence to her role, thus contributing to the movie's thematic richness. Stephen Fry and David Walliams add their inimitable comic touch and aptly act as comic villains.

In conclusion, Missing Link is not just another animation movie. It's a beautiful combination of a captivating story, memorable characters, sparkling humor, groundbreaking animation, and stirring performances. It is an enjoyable ride for both children and adults, filled with numerous awe-inspiring and hilarious moments. The film delivers an amazing cinematic experience and a message that resonates with audiences of all ages, that it's okay to be different and seek one's own path in life.