Wolfwalkers now on Apple TV+
In a time of superstition and magic, a young apprentice hunter, Robyn Goodfellowe, journeys to Ireland with her father to wipe out the last wolf pack. While exploring the forbidden lands outside the city walls, Robyn befriends a free-spirited girl, Mebh, a member of a mysterious tribe rumored to have the ability to transform into wolves by night. As they search for Mebh’s missing mother, Robyn uncovers a secret that draws her further into the enchanted world of the WOLFWALKERS and risks turning into the very thing her father is tasked to destroy.
Directors Tomm Moore & Ross Stewart have produced a sublimely animated tale with a stellar voice cast that includes Honor Kneafsey, Eva Whittaker & Sean Bean that really injects an extra level to the movie. Cartoon Saloon have turned out yet another triumph of folklore telling. This Irish tale sways along as it attempts to beguile into the story and be swept away with its raw emotion and storytelling.
However, while this is quite rightly being touted as one of the movies of 2020, it doesn’t come without it problems. The storyline at times is distinctly lacking with an air of familiarity about it. Probably because it shares similar themes to Disney’s Brave with the look of the old Childrens classic TV series Willow The Wisp. The comparisons don’t end there either as Simon McBurney’s Lord Protector bears some similarities to Disney’s Pocahontas John Ratcliffe character too. While the stories are far apart, elements do echo throughout.
The film is fairly predictable and it offers no surprises anywhere to make you think any different. Younger audiences might find it a bit drawn out as well. The faster paced sequences are few and far between, but that itself does add to the movies charm. If you are looking for something a lot different to the usual Hollywood animated fare, with some charm, excellent voice casting and a beautiful soundtrack, then Wolfwalkers may just howl it’s way into your hearts.
Wolfwalkers now on Apple TV+
