The Wild Robot Review| Screen One

Chris Sanders’ The Wild Robot is a captivating adaptation of Peter Brown’s cherished children’s novel, brought to life with breathtaking animation, emotional storytelling, and a powerhouse cast. With its compelling exploration of resilience, kindness, and the connection between technology and nature, this film is destined to become a family classic.

The story follows Roz, a robot stranded on a remote island, who learns to adapt, survive, and ultimately form bonds with the animal inhabitants. Lupita Nyong’o delivers a mesmerizing vocal performance as Roz, perfectly embodying the character’s journey from machine to something profoundly human. Pedro Pascal voices Fink, a sly and resourceful foil, adding layers of humor and tension to Roz’s story. Kit Connor shines as Brightbill, Roz’s adopted goose son, providing some of the film’s most touching moments.

The supporting cast is equally exceptional. Bill Nighy’s Longneck exudes wisdom and gravitas, Catherine O’Hara’s Pinktail brings levity and charm, and Ving Rhames’ Thunderbolt commands attention in every scene and Mark Hamill adds another impressive voice performance as Thorn, a prickly grizzly bear. Together, this stellar ensemble creates a vibrant, emotional world that audiences of all ages will connect with.

Visually, The Wild Robot is nothing short of majestic on every level. Chris Sanders, known for How to Train Your Dragon, uses stunning landscapes, intricate character design, and dazzling color palettes to craft a lush, immersive environment. The animation perfectly complements the narrative, turning Roz’s journey of survival into a vivid and unforgettable experience.

The film also delves into profound themes of coexistence, compassion, and finding one’s place in the world. Roz’s relationships with the island’s inhabitants are rich and nuanced, teaching viewers about empathy and the strength of community. Its pacing strikes the perfect balance, engaging younger audiences while offering deeper reflections for adults.

The Wild Robot is a heartfelt and beautifully realized film that transcends its genre. With its outstanding voice performances, stunning visuals, and meaningful messages, it’s a cinematic treasure that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re familiar with the book or experiencing Roz’s journey for the first time, this is a must-watch film that delivers on every level. It’s also going to feature on many a top 5 end of year best of lists too, including Screen One’s.

The Wild Robot bonus features are as follows:

EXCLUSIVE BONUS FEATURES WHEN YOU BUY AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS*:

COMMERCIAL FOR ROZZUM – An alternate opening to the film in storyboard form, with introduction by writer/director Chris Sanders.

MOMENTS FROM THE MIC – Straight from the recording booth, watch the star-studded cast of The Wild Robot perform some of their most memorable lines!

MEET THE CAST– How do you give empathy to the voice of a robot, vulnerability to a fox, and wisdom to an opossum? Meet the talented voice cast and learn more about your favorite characters from The Wild Robot.

THE OVERPROTECTIVE MOTHER – A deleted sequence from the film in storyboard form, with an introduction by writer/director Chris Sanders.

ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: ANIMATING THE WILD ROBOT – Go behind the scenes to see how filmmakers pushed the boundaries of animation to achieve the uniquely immersive world of The Wild Robot.

FEELING ALIVE – Learn how filmmakers and cast enhanced the universally relatable thematic elements of Peter Brown’s original story to deepen its emotional connection to audiences.

WILD SOUNDS – Explore the incredible music of The Wild Robot – from Kris Bowers’ enchanting score to Maren Morris’ two new songs.

HOW TO DRAW – Follow along with writer/director Chris Sanders as he teaches Lupita Nyong’o how to draw Roz and then learn to draw Fink, Baby Brightbill, and Pinktail with story artist/character designer Genevieve Tsai!

FLY YOUR OWN BRIGHTBILL – One of Roz’s primary tasks is to teach Brightbill to fly so he can migrate with the other geese. Here, you’ll learn how to create your very own Brightbill Kite so you can help him fly too!

* only available on Apple store