Strange World
Seemingly appearing out of thin air after a rather lackluster or, better yet, nonexistent marketing effort for the film, Strange World has arrived in theaters as Disney’s yearly Thanksgiving week release. Because of Disney’s lack of attention toward Strange World, I think I can speak for most of the population (that is, those that know of the film’s existence) that expectations for this film were low. However, it both excites me and saddens me that Strange World proves those preconceived notions wrong. Exciting because it’s always great to have a film exceed expectations but saddening because it’s a film that truly deserves the box office numbers that Disney animated films typically get. Strange World is an enthralling adventure for all the family with its discussion of mature themes, compelling and endearing characters, and unique approach to its plot.
The animated feature follows the Clade family as they embark on an otherworldly journey to save the singular source of power, Pando, in their hometown of Avalonia. As a mysterious infection affecting the crop begins to spread, the family makes their way to uncharted territory in search of a solution. In this other world, the founder of Pando and father of Ethan Clade (Jaboukie Young-White), Searcher (Jake Gyllenhaal) encounters his father, Jaeger (Dennis Quaid), a famous explorer who abandoned him as a child for his selfish need for adventure. Bizarre creatures and treacherous landscapes threaten the safety of the family and the possibility of saving their home.
The core of the film is grounded in the trio of Clade men and it’s where most of its heart lies. What makes an animated film stand out from the typical fodder is serving its adult audience as well as the children and it’s exactly what Strange World does. Generational trauma, finding oneself and the complexities between father and son relationships are all discussed within the dynamics of these three characters. Pixar’s Turning Red had a similar discussion except this time the genders were flipped and it was refreshing to see a mainstream Disney film explore familial emotions through this lens. Just as refreshing was seeing an openly gay character, Ethan, in a Disney film. Ethan not only has a heartwarmingly supportive family but his character arc refrains from the overly done “coming out” storyline. Ethan’s dilemma is simply having a crush on another high-school kid. It feels like the fifth time Disney has had its “first gay character” in a feature but there’s no hiding his sexuality behind a throwaway line or having him be a background character this time around. It could not be more uplifting to see the LGBTQ+ community outwardly expressed and celebrated in a Disney film for the actual first time. Additionally, Strange World does tackle the familiar theme of conservatism but its approach is unique enough to look past its redundancy.
The full clan in tow attempting to escape the strange world that is comprised of a red and purple color palette and brought to life with the incredibly advanced animation that is to be expected of Disney.
Supporting all of these themes are great voice performances from all of the main cast including Gabrielle Union as the matriarch of the family, Meridian Clade. Her performance was able to make her character as the comedic relief work whilst not appearing as forced or grating. Jake Gyllenhaal as Searcher Clade was a perfect casting decision as his voice suited the character, both physically and emotionally. During the more dramatic scenes, Gyllenhall’s vocal abilities did not falter or ever make me doubt his sincerity. Quite frankly, the same can be said for his father and son counterparts.
At this point, it should just be assumed that the animation in a Disney film was exceptional and Strange World was unsurprisingly no exception. As for the art design of the film, it is a grower and something that one has to get accustomed to over the course of the film. Most of the designs for the creatures and landscapes in the titular strange world are rather unpleasant to look at or appear to be lazy unfinished concepts. Thankfully, a plot development that shakes things up does serve as an explanation for the creative choices in their design but it does not completely eliminate my distaste for them. This same story beat can also serve as the reasoning behind the repetitive nature of the “antagonist” of the film which are simply blob-like figures that attack the gang multiple times. Although the “reveal” behind these artistic choices cleverly explains the reasoning behind the lack of variety, I can’t help but think that the creatives at Disney could have come up with other concepts in terms of the peril found within this world.
The three generations of Clade men having a quick moment of bonding (with the inclusion of the “solely for merchandising” character Splat) before generational trauma rears its head again a few moments later - a shot that quickly summarizes the themes of the film.
This low-stakes nature is the biggest facet I see people having an issue with. It is in these low stakes, though, that I find strength in the film. It transforms the film into a comforting and easygoing experience and gives it the liberty to rely more on the characters and their relationships.
Qui Ngyuen’s screenplay could come off as rigid and unrealistic for a real-life person at times but again, the performances elevate the writing. However, there’s no denying that the screenplay and plot were thoughtfully put together and its creativity should not go unnoticed. After the aforementioned plot development, a certain “I should’ve seen that coming” feeling is elicited from the audience and it is undoubtedly attributed to the writing and world-building.
After experiencing burnout from sequels and reboots, it is with open arms that I welcome Strange World to Disney’s catalog. Is it up to Disney standards? No. As a matter of fact, it is still unclear to me whether or not its dissimilarity in tone to other Disney films is to its advantage or not. Does it follow certain family film tropes? Yes. The obligatory “cute” side-character present for the sole purpose of merchandising is there. But did it deliver on being a charming, inclusive, and ultimately engaging watch for all? Yes. Strange World takes its viewers on an exciting expedition; its original take on saving the planet and open dialogue on universal, impactful themes for children and adults alike overshadow the bumps in the road, making it worth the trek to theaters.
Verdict: What was expected to be a flop (in terms of quality but unfortunately rings true for its box office numbers) is surprisingly a Nick Pick.