Tag: Illumination

Migration

Published on by Daniela1 Comment

Migration is the newest of Illumination’s offerings. The Mallard family have a pretty great set up in their New England pond. Mack (Kumail Nanjiani), the father in particular, isn’t bothered when everyone else flies south for the winter. This year is different when his wife Pam (Elizabeth Banks) convinces him otherwise. Together they set out with their two children Dax (Caspar Jennings) and Gwen (Tresi Gazal) as well as Uncle Dan (Danny DeVito) on the adventure of a lifetime.

Though the plot may be simple and straightforward, there’s plenty to enjoy. At the heart of the film the theme of family and this was depicted prominently throughout. The ways in which they worked together was heartwarming to see. You could tell they were close and would do anything for each other, no matter the trials and tribulations they faced.

At times it felt like the events unfolding were predictable. Sometimes this can be comforting because we know that everything will turn out okay. That was the case here. It was the journey leading up to the final destination that kept me invested with the scenes in New York City being my favorite. Chump (Awkwafina), a tough on the outside yet warm on the inside pigeon, and Delroy (Keegan-Michael Key), a down on his luck macaw, were introduced here and elevated the story.

From the tranquil pond where the Mallards live, to the skies up above and the bustling city down below, ending in the exotic beaches and waters of Jamaica, the audience is transported to many places over the course of the film. The animation was pretty to look at and really made me feel like I was along for the ride.

Overall Migration is the perfect film for all the family. Not only is there adventure, there are many laughs and a lot of heart thrown in that make for a perfect combination.

Rating: ♥️♥️♥️

Minions: The Rise of Gru

Published on by DanielaLeave a comment

Gru and the minions are back! This time around, Gru (Steve Carell) is almost twelve years old and has been practicing his evil ways. When supervillain supergroup The Vicious 6 stage a coup from leader Wild Knuckles (Alan Arkin), Gru is invited to an interview. In a series of unfortunate events, he finds himself in the role of enemy number one. It is up to his trusty sidekicks Kevin, Stuart, Bob and newest Minion Otto (Pierre Coffin) to help him out.

Thanks to a two and a half year delay due to the pandemic, the follow up to the smash hit Minions has finally hit cinemas. I have to say it was well worth the wait! There is something about this franchise that is just so fresh and fun; it’s impossible not to enjoy yourself while watching.

With the stakes raised even higher this time around, we get to know a different side of Gru. The way in which Steve Carell voices this character has always been a treat, however, this time around was even better. We are also introduced to a couple of other newbies who I feel added an extra element to the story. I loved the addition of Michelle Yeoh’s Master Chow, who helped prepare Kevin, Stuart and Bob to fight against the bad guys, not to mention Taraji P. Henson as the incomparable Belle Bottom.

Hands down, though, the best part of this movie was, of course, the minions. These lovable yellow creatures are just so damn cute, I can’t decide if I want to own one or be one. Every single time they were on screen was a pure joy. I was close to tears from laughing so much at their antics.

Minions: The Rise of Gru is the animated film of the summer. It’s got action and adventure, with a little bit of heart thrown in. The soundtrack is great and the Easter eggs that are scattered throughout are a hoot if you’re a big fan!

Rating: ♥♥♥.5