There’s an interesting Phenomena every couple of years where unbeknownst to each other, two films with virtually identical plots will release within the same year. And with that, hot off the heals of Missing Link comes Dreamworks’ Abominable. A film that only kids will get the most out of.
Abominable is a perfectly average movie. It does little that will offend anyone nor impress anyone. And that in and of itself is the biggest disappointment. It has a story that could be good, meaningful, and relatable, but goes nowhere with it. And while that may be fine for younger audiences who just want to have fun, older viewers be advised that this movie won’t stick with you for very long.
Taking place in China, a young girl named Yi encounters a Yeti on the roof of her apartment. After bonding with the beast, she resolves to help him; with the aid of two of her friends, get back home to Mt. Everest.
While the film is mostly mediocre, it does manage to strive in some areas. Namely, the visuals. Dreamworks proves once again that it’s capable of putting of visual showpieces that rival the artistic styles of some of Pixar’s best. The landscapes in particular are lovely to look at, you could get lost in these gorgeous vistas.
Nothing else quite reaches the quality of the visuals though. The humour can be hit or miss, there is some fun slapstick throughout, but mostly the jokes are very simple and not at all clever, with some exceptions.
The characters are also sadly uninteresting. Which is disappointing because there is potential for them to reach out and grab at your heartstrings. They are given mostly one-dimensional tartes and arks. The film is very predictable, odds are you know where the story is going right from the start.
Given the studio’s clear talent with films like How to Train Your Dragon and Kung-Fu Panda, it’s disappointing that Abominable falls short of greatness by playing it safe and not being more creative or interesting.
Children will love this movie. It is gorgeous and the characters are lively animated which is sure to delight. But it doesn’t do much else passed that so parents Temper your expectations.
Dreamworks’ Abominable is perfectly fine, which is most disappointing.
Abominable
6 out of 10
1 hr. 40 Mins. Fantasy Adventure Animation.
Directed by Jill Culton
Starring Chloe Bennet, Albert Tsai, Tenzing Norgay Trainor, and Sarah Paulson.
Now playing at Film.ca Cinemas, Cineplex Winston Churchill, and Cineplex Oakville & VIP.
