DreamWorks Animation’s latest film, The Wild Robot, captures the essence of what it means to be human, all without a single human character. This enchanting story, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s magical touch, explores themes of love, family, and the challenges of parenting through the eyes of a robot.
What is The Wild Robot About?
The film tells the tale of Roz, a robot voiced by the talented Lupita Nyong’o. After crash-landing on a deserted island, Roz finds herself alone, with no humans to serve. But rather than sulking, she decides to adapt. Her programming to please others pushes her to help the island’s animals, eventually leading her to care for a gosling named Brightbill. Roz’s journey begins when she inadvertently causes Brightbill to lose his family, and she takes it upon herself to nurture him and teach him how to fly south for the winter.
This story beautifully mirrors the experiences of motherhood. When Roz claims she isn’t programmed to be a mother, a wise possum responds, “No one is; we just figure it out.” This perfectly encapsulates the ups and downs of parenting—mistakes, affection, heartbreak, and the bittersweet feeling of letting go as children grow up.
A Family-Friendly Adventure
The Wild Robot is not just for kids; it’s a delightful adventure for audiences of all ages. As Roz learns to navigate her new world, she observes and mimics the local wildlife, forging connections with them. Her newfound family includes a clever fox named Fink, voiced by Pedro Pascal, and Pinktail, the charming possum voiced by Catherine O’Hara. Together, they embody the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.”
The film is visually stunning, with vibrant colors that showcase the rich diversity of the island’s ecosystem. The animation blends photorealism and impressionism, adapting to the needs of each scene. DreamWorks has clearly evolved, moving away from its earlier, less imaginative works. However, some might wish for a more unique design for Roz herself, as she resembles a mix of BB-8 from Star Wars and Baymax from Big Hero 6.
An Emotional Journey
Among animated films about robots, The Wild Robot stands proudly alongside classics like The Iron Giant and Wall-E. From the very beginning, I was drawn into the story, but it was the emotional flight training montage set to the original song “Kiss the Sky” that truly moved me. This scene parallels the touching moment with Bing Bong from Inside Out, where Roz sacrifices a part of herself to help Brightbill fly, ultimately learning the painful lesson of letting go. It’s a moment that might require tissues for the adults in the audience!
Tackling Difficult Themes
Unlike many children’s films, The Wild Robot does not shy away from the topic of death. The natural world is depicted with honesty, showing predators and the food chain as part of life. The film touches on loss and grief in a gentle manner, allowing families to discuss these difficult topics after viewing.
The forest setting feels so immersive that the appearance of the first human character feels almost out of place. Roz’s human-like traits become a concern for her creators at Universal Dynamics, who send other robots to bring her back. The leader of these robots, Vontra, describes herself as “morally neutral,” subtly hinting at the often troubling nature of capitalism. Glimpses of a submerged Golden Gate Bridge suggest a troubled future for humanity, underscoring the story’s deeper messages.
The Wild Robot
Wholesome and deeply moving, The Wild Robot is perfect for family movie night. It effectively uses animation to convey universal truths about love, loss, and what it means to be human. While Roz’s intelligence may be artificial, her emotions are incredibly real. This film is a touching reminder that the essence of being human lies in our capacity to love and care for one another, no matter our form. Whether you’re young or old, The Wild Robot offers a heartfelt experience that resonates with us all.
