A delightful surprise from 20th Century Fox’s Blue Sky Studios, the animated film “Ferdinand,” based on Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson’s 80-year-old children’s book “The Story of Ferdinand,” will hook you as sharply as a matador’s sword.
Set in Spain, the home of the blood sport and cultural event that is bullfighting, the story is centered on a giant but gentle bull, Ferdinand, effectively voiced by wrestler John Cena. Accidentally mistaken as an aggressive bull, Ferdinand is locked up in a ranch that breeds bulls for the sport.
To the frustration of Lupe (Kate McKinnon), the hilarious regurgitating calming goat and his coach (who’s got the ugliest set of teeth in cinematic history), Ferdinand is no fighter—but a lifesaver and a flower-smelling generous soul. As Ferdinand is paraded with other bulls, including the ambitious Valiente (Bobby Cannavale), in front of matador superstar El Primero (Miguel Ángel Silvestre), we know he’s going to be picked. But will Ferdinand fight…or flee?
While it offers nothing edgy or original, the movie, directed by Carlos Saldanha (“Rio” and “Ice Age” movies), is inspired and has a heart as big as Ferdinand’s. The titular bull’s unusual characteristic is nothing extraordinary, but how the animals respond to his propaganda and conviction that a bull doesn’t have to fight is thigh-slapping funny. Also, Ferdinand’s kind, soulful eyes and his gawky smile will instantly make you like him.
It is a rarity to experience an animated film with animals so incredibly fun to watch. The anthropomorphism is stunning; from their distinct facial features down to their rich and flawed personalities, which reminds you of David Sedaris’ brilliant novel “Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk” with its cutting truth, sardonic wit, and wisdom.
The gangster of bulls, the trio of haughty horses (that look like people that look like horses), the thieving hedgehogs, and the MVP of the movie, the unsightly goat, are real folks: they could be your neighbor, a classmate, a colleague.
The action sequences are tensing and fun (including an uproarious cat-and-mouse chase in the streets of Madrid), and the theme of bullfighting evokes once again a sense of repulsion, intrigue, and awe for the violent dance between man and beast. Also, the underlying themes of aggression, bullying, and animal cruelty are finely nuanced.
It’s refreshing to watch a family-friendly animated film that focuses on telling a character-driven story rather than on gimmickry. Driven by rich characters backed by superior voice acting spouting witty dialogue, and set in the lush, vibrant, and romantic Spain, coupled with beautiful, lilting Spanish music, “Ferdinand,” is visually, intellectually, and emotionally rewarding. It takes the word “fighter” to a whole new meaning. A must-see.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Still showing in select cinemas nationwide (now on its second week).
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