The Point

The Point is an extraordinary and profoundly influential animated film from 1971 that proffers an intriguing blend of fantasy, fairy tale, and moral allegory. The movie features the legendary Beatles drummer Ringo Starr and acclaimed actor Dustin Hoffman, while being richened by the distinctive voice work of Paul Frees. This film was a creative venture directed by Fred Wolf and was built around an album by Harry Nilsson, a popular songwriter of the late 1960s and early 1970s who had a proclivity towards whimsical and poignant narratives.

The Point offers a unique envisioning of an alternate realm known as the ‘Land of Point’ presented as an enchanting tale that is suitable for children but layered with deeper elements that cater to adult sensibilities. Nilsson enmeshed his melodic knack into the narrative, forming a beautiful interplay between the story and songs, which weave together to create an engrossing and layered fantasy world.

Set in a peculiar world where everything and everyone has a point—including the people who sport conical heads —the narrative follows the unusual life of Oblio, a boy different from others as he was born round-headed. Voiced impeccvably by Mike Lookinland, Oblio, along with his faithful dog Arrow, makes for the heart of the narrative.

The overarching theme of The Point is a touching exploration of acceptance and the struggles of being different in a homogeneous society. Various embedded lessons are delivered in the form of the adventures Oblio undergoes, making it a wonderful amalgamation of creativity and morality.

The character of Oblio stands as the central character whose journey allows the audience to delve into a narrative contemplating the essence of individuality, acceptance, and non-conformity. He is considered an outcast due to his lack of a point, resulting in banishment from his town, catalysing a fantastical quest. His companion, Arrow, plays an excellent supportive role, adding a charm and charisma to the unfolding tale.

The remarkable voiceover by Dustin Hoffman, who narrates the story, and Ringo Starr, who voiced the father of Oblio, bring a rich depth to the characters. Their vocal performances complement the stunningly vibrant and psychedelic animation, creating an immersive viewing experience that's engaging, entertaining, and leaves room for in-depth interpretation. Paul Frees, known for his melodious and versatile voice, dons multiple roles, bringing life to a host of quirky characters, further amplifying the appeal of The Point.

While the narrative, characters, and voice performances are unquestionably impressive, a significant stand-out aspect of this film is its animation. The artwork in The Point is particularly noteworthy for maintaining an imprinted continuity of Nilsson's illustrative style. The animation is surreal, simple yet beautiful, with an aesthetic appeal reminiscent of the era it was created in, soaking in 70s vibes and surrealism. The color palette, line work, and depiction of characters stand in sync with the narrative's rhythm and tonality.

Nilsson's music takes front and center, stringing together scenes and driving the narrative with his unique blend of pop, rock, folk, and whimsy. His music is not merely a background score but a significant character in the film. The songs, laden with profound yrics, capture the emotions of the plot's highs and lows, enhancing the storytelling's resonance with viewers.

The Point is ultimately a movie that pushes boundaries and explodes the mainstream framework of storytelling in animated movies. It takes its viewers on a compelling ride filled with vivid visuals, catchy tunes, and thought-provoking narrative turns.

The journey of Oblio is filled with encounters that feel both wildly fantastical and yet allegorically realistic, revealing Nilsson’s prodigious ability to mix childlike wonder with profound life truths.

The presentation of the movie, along with its impressive voice cast and memorable music, made The Point a significant entry in the genre of animated films, leaving an indelible and delightful impact on its audience.

Without a doubt, The Point is a visceral experience that transcends typical narrative tropes in favor of something far more transcendent and mythical. Its distinctive portrayal of universal themes through a captivating journey of acceptance and individuality marks it as an unforgettable classic from the annals of 1971 cinematic history.