The Willoughbys

The Willoughbys is a vibrant and quirky 2020 computer-animated comedy film based on Lois Lowry's enchanting book of the same name. With a star-studded cast including Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, and Alessia Cara, the movie brings a unique twist to the conventional portrayal of family constructs, love, and responsibilities, capturing the hearts of both kids and adults alike.

The story swirls around the four Willoughby siblings - Tim, Jane, and the twins, both named Barnaby - who boast of a lineage of fantastic individualists. They are born in a house that has not one, but two, pointed turrets. More than its unusual design, what the kids despise is the chilly isolation within the property walls, which comes from their self-absorbed parents who are burdened by the mere existence of their children.

Although the siblings are unquestionably neglected, their spirits aren't dampened. They're ingenuously vibrant and imaginative, creating their worlds and adventures. Will Forte gives voice to the stickler Tim, the eldest and most conventionally Willoughby of the lot, who takes pride in their family's past and vies for respect and order. His sister, Jane, lends life to the rebellious streak of the siblings, given life by singer-songwriter Alessia Cara, whose voice adds a musical dimension to Jane's character.

Amid all this familial chaos enter a delightful nanny, voiced by Maya Rudolph, who replaces the cold vacuum left by their parents with warmth and genuine concern. Her character offers a charming contrast to the parents, voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski, creating an interesting dynamic that forms the crux of the story.

The tone of the movie is humorous, with an underbelly of dark and clever joke-lines that aim to strike the adult senses as well. The visuals are eye-popping and vivid, making the storytelling experience enriching for its young audience. The sheer uniqueness of the plot and the endearing eccentricity of the characters ensure the film moves beyond traditional family movies.

Director Kris Pearn's adaptation retains the spirit of Lowry's whimsical and amusing narrative style, elevating the movie with quick-paced humour and playful visual language. The director and his team brilliantly use animation to depict the panoramic world of the Willoughbys - from their ancient mansion, the candy factory, to the exciting journey they embark on in the hope of becoming "old-school" kids that they aspire to be.

Supporting characters, like the candy factory owner Commander Melanoff and the kittens, add layers of depth and fun to the plot. The film never lets up with its barrage of visual puns, constant action, and heartfelt moments. With its colorful characters, intricate attention to detail, and fast-paced humor, The Willoughbys keeps the audience engaged throughout.

In a world full of animated films with adorable characters and feel-good vibes, The Willoughbys paints a picture of a dysfunctional family in a light that is amusing, bold, but undeniably warm at its core. It provides an intense yet comical perspective on neglectful parents, resourceful kids, while also exploring the actual meaning of love, family, responsibility, and care.

Despite being a comedy, the movie contains surprisingly profound moments that steer the viewer to question the very relationship between love and family. Through the absurdity, the film delivers a message about the significance of self-made families and finding love in unexpected places.

The different elements of humour, emotion, a unique plot, and distinct characters, amplified by the brilliant star cast, make The Willoughbys a must-watch animation classic. The film is an unforgettable journey that entertains, touches hearts, and prompts laughter, making it a great watch for the entire family. The Willoughbys is a testament to the flexibility and charm of animated storytelling, where absurdity meets reality, painting a beautiful picture with hues of laugh lines and life lessons.