The Point

The Point is an animated feature film that, despite its seemingly simple graphic style, carries a profound message beneath its surface. Premiered in 1971, this animated adventure was directed and produced by Fred Wolf and written by renowned singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson who also provided the soundtrack for the film. The movie carries an enduring appeal, despite the passage of time since its release.

The film's narrative centers around a fictional locale known as 'The Land of Point', a strange world distinctively characterized by everything being pointed – from its buildings to its inhabitants. Everything in this weird land must have a point, and it is this distinguishing caveat that ramps up the film's intrigue right from the outset. The film presents the story of Oblio, a kind and amiable young boy who becomes the focal point of the plot, quite literally, due to his round, point-less head.

Unlike everybody else, Oblio is 'pointless', and his lack of a point on his head presents a profound reflection on the theme of societal conformism and bias in an unsuspectingly engaging, animated narrative. Oblio's only friend, a trusty pet dog named Arrow, remarkably, features a pointed shape just like everyone else in the Land of Point.

The narrative takes an exciting turn when Oblio, along with his lovable pet, is unjustly banished from the land due to his physical differentness. Forced into exile to the Pointless Forest, Oblio embarks on a journey that exposes him to different mysteries, adventures, and a myriad of peculiar, enchanting characters. Through Oblio's journey and interactions, the movie embarks on a quest that challenges perspective, norms, and conformity in an engaging way that captivates its viewers, regardless of age or time.

The lively rendering and a wholesale confluence of humor, morals, striking animations, and an engaging storyline set The Point apart in the realm of animated movies. The film's simplistic, yet stylish animation artistry delights the eyes while effectively unfolding the gripping narrative. The vivid, colorful art creates a surreal and distinctive world, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer's mind long after the movie is over.

In addition to the captivating aesthetics and a compelling storyline, the film boasts an unforgettable, enchanting soundtrack, written and performed by Harry Nilsson. The soundtrack not only complements the overarching theme and mood of the movie but also adds an additional layer of vibrancy and emotion. The seamless intertwining of music with the unfolding narrative works as an integral component enhancing the overall visual aesthetic and experience of the movie.

Using Oblio’s journey as a metaphor, The Point weaves a symbolic taunt to societal norms that judge individuals based on how they appear or what the norms think they should be, rather than who they truly are. The movie gently exposes the absurdity of such biases, fostering empathy, acceptance, and understanding in an intriguing way.

Over five decades after its release, The Point continues to remain an enchanting piece of work in the animated film genre. It effectively builds upon its narrative, thereby exploring an array of themes from societal norms to friendships to existential and narrative points in a captivating manner. It achieves this with such ease that viewers can't help but be swept away in the story and underlying symbolism without realizing the depth of topics being explored.

For those who have a penchant for animation, desire engaging storytelling, or need a deeply moving narrative set to music, The Point offers an unforgettable cinematic experience. Its mesmerizing artistry coupled with a beautifully constructed storyline speaks volumes about the power of animation as a medium to convey compelling stories and ideas. Despite being an older film, The Point still resonates with contemporary viewers, making it a timeless piece that is worth watching. Its ability to communicate profound messages masked by an engaging narrative and breathtaking visuals clearly points to the movie’s timeless, enduring appeal.