The Wild Robot Entertaining for Kids and Adults

Even though I don't have kids, I still enjoy a good children's movie-especially as I feel I'm still a kid at heart in many ways. Recently, I watched the animated film The Wild Robot and found myself completely drawn into its heartfelt story.

Courtesy Universal Pictures

The Wild Robot follows the journey of a robot stranded on a remote, forested island, where it learns to coexist with wildlife and even takes on the unexpected role of raising a baby goose.

Directed by Chris Sanders, this film features the voices of Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, and Kit Connor, with special appearances by Bill Nighy and Mark Hamill. The movie is based on Peter Brown's 2016 book and follows the journey of a robot stranded on a remote, forested island, where it learns to coexist with wildlife and even takes on the unexpected role of raising a baby goose. As expected, the robot faces challenges in connecting with the island's animal residents.

While the movie does have some inconsistencies, the concept of the robot character is captivating. It's equipped with advanced features from its manufacturing company and a vast database of knowledge. Yet, it's puzzling that, despite its extensive data, the robot knows how to communicate with different animals but doesn't understand basic survival instincts, like why a fox might prey on a baby goose or how to teach the young goose essential skills, like swimming.

Despite being somewhat predictable, the movie is undeniably charming, filled with touching moments that might just bring a tear to your eye. The themes of acceptance, embracing differences, and finding ways to grow beyond one's original "programming" offer valuable lessons for audiences of all ages.

The island animals must learn to trust this mechanical stranger in their midst, while the robot adapts to tasks far beyond its initial design. The film highlights growth on all fronts: the fox, the goose, and other animals are pushed to expand beyond their usual behaviors, ultimately forming deeper connections because of it.

Naturally, there's a conflict when the robot's creators arrive to retrieve their "malfunctioning" invention. The storyline here gave me echoes of the 1980s movie Short Circuit, with its similar themes of self-discovery and autonomy.

The voice acting is strong, and the animation brings a unique beauty to the wild setting and characters.

I wouldn't mind having one of those robots.

Overall, The Wild Robot is a thoroughly enjoyable movie with positive themes that appeals to adults and kids alike.

I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.