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Smallfoot

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A scene in the movie, Smallfoot. (Warner Bros)
A scene in the movie, Smallfoot. (Warner Bros)

WHAT IT'S ABOUT:

News of a “smallfoot” brings a bright young Yeti fame and a chance with the girl of his dreams. But, it also throws the simple Yeti community into an uproar over what else might be out there in the big world beyond their snowy village. A rollicking story about friendship, courage and the joy of discovery.

WHAT WE THOUGHT:

I was pleasantly surprised when watching Smallfoot, not only because mere minutes into the film did I realise it was a musical – filled with amazing original songs, I might add – but also because the shoe is on the other foot, for a change.

In a world filled with humans convinced that the yeti, aka Big Foot, exists and who have for years been searching for them, Smallfoot is a funny and refreshing perspective from the mystical being’s side.

The casting of Smallfoot was done brilliantly. Each character is brought to life with the unique flair and personality carried out by those who portrayed them.

Now, I have to say I’m not the biggest Channing Tatum fan but his portrayal of Migos was really good. Everything from his singing to his animated sounds were on point – which leads me to say that I think animation is Channing’s forte and he should totally just stick to it.

Other cast members including Zendaya as Meechee, Danny DeVito as Dorgle, Gina Rodriguez as Kolka, James Corden as Percy and even Yara Shahidi’s small yet needed role as Brenda all contributed to making Smallfoot the colourful adventure it is.

Another stand out though, was Common as Stonekeeper. His calm, deep voice fit perfectly with the character, especially given that Stonekeeper is the leader and needs to keep the peace among his community.

And can I just say, Stonekeeper’s song, Let It Lie, is not only a breaking point in the movie but is so very relevant to the real world including the power of communication, the treatment of others, being true to yourself and understanding things on a deeper level and not only judging what you see on the surface.

In saying that, the entire soundtrack of Smallfoot is great! Director and co-screenwriter, Karey Kirkpatrick took on the task of writing the film’s songs, along with his brother Wayne and while they’re not exactly timeless anthems like say what Disney’s Frozen and Moana has offered they really are catchy and entertaining.

While the life lessons in Smallfoot may be a little difficult for the younger kids to understand, Kirkpatrick and co-writer Clare Sera have managed to take what could’ve turned out to be just another superficial silly animation based on mythical creatures and give it a lot more meat.

Emphasising themes such as the dangers of fear and close-mindedness as well as the transformative power of communication in this adventurous story makes sure that there's something for every member of the family - big or small.

Smallfoot is a delightfully joyous celebration of wonder, discovery and truth filled with song, dance and funny moments that will keep everyone entertained.



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