What will you expect when you walk into 'The Lego Movie'? For anyone who has played with Lego toys as a child or as an adult, you probably have created the film in your mind. Unlike Emmet, I went in with a preconceive expectation and after watching it, the movie was completely different than what what I built in my minds eye. In the end, it was better.
Direction, Acting & Storyline: 4 stars
Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs) did a masterful job of directing a movie about these beloved toys. The storyline connected the nostalgia with subtle humour to appeal to an adult. Yet, keeping in mind that the child must enjoy and like these figures, regardless of the era they represent. My only complaint about the film was the pacing. At times it moves so fast, you miss key dialogue and story components. (I will admit, it may have been the two year old playing video games in the theatre, too)
Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy, Moneyball) was hilarious as the lead character, Emmet Brickowoski. The support cast is too large to mention all of them, but most of the figures have a historical or humorous purpose. A minor issue I struggled with in the film was trying to connect the voice and the figure, but that is probably more my issue than a flaw of the film.
The writers were masterbuilders of a story that travels into the minds of how different people approach Lego building. They respect the importance of these toys to multiple generations, but do not take themselves too seriously. The conclusion was a nice surprise and beautifully explains the seemingly disjointed storyline. The writing seems like a weakness throughout the film, but comes together in the end.
Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy, Moneyball) was hilarious as the lead character, Emmet Brickowoski. The support cast is too large to mention all of them, but most of the figures have a historical or humorous purpose. A minor issue I struggled with in the film was trying to connect the voice and the figure, but that is probably more my issue than a flaw of the film.
The writers were masterbuilders of a story that travels into the minds of how different people approach Lego building. They respect the importance of these toys to multiple generations, but do not take themselves too seriously. The conclusion was a nice surprise and beautifully explains the seemingly disjointed storyline. The writing seems like a weakness throughout the film, but comes together in the end.
Visual Effects: 4 stars
This film has amazing visual effects. It had a stop motion effect style, but was completely CGI. The visuals were crafted nicely to support the story line. They did not distract, but helped to carry the film along the journey.
Family Component: 5 stars
One thing that excited me about this film was it was a film all of my family could enjoy together. This seemed to be reflected in the audience, too. Young and old seemed to enjoy this film. (Except for the youngest audience members, which seemed to be seated right by me the whole film. Maybe 2 year olds should not go for other viewers benefit.)
God Component: 2 stars
The whole movie hinges on the prophecy of 'The One' by Vitruvius, played by Morgan Freeman. The film gives room to a messiah-like calling for Emmet. You can see the connection to a Messiah, but not much different than many other quest films. There is one scene when delving into the mind of Emmet that we see a reference to God.
The humanistic 'everyone is special' does get a bit tiresome and the new age of emptying your mind does make an appearance. They both have a comedic undertone, but should be addressed when talking with children about the message of the film.
None of these are scenes are handled disrespectfully and I think would be too much of a stretch to see them as anything more than good story hooks. Yet, they may lead to good conversation pieces for young and old on the topic of God.
None of these are scenes are handled disrespectfully and I think would be too much of a stretch to see them as anything more than good story hooks. Yet, they may lead to good conversation pieces for young and old on the topic of God.
Overall Rating: 4 stars
You cannot miss with this film. Is it totally awesome? Almost. It was fun and enjoyable for all. Even if you did not grow up on Lego, you will be able to appreciate the fun that this film has with imagination and what we do with ours. It is a film that anyone can enjoy.
It will leave you with the question, what kind of builder are you?
You cannot miss with this film. Is it totally awesome? Almost. It was fun and enjoyable for all. Even if you did not grow up on Lego, you will be able to appreciate the fun that this film has with imagination and what we do with ours. It is a film that anyone can enjoy.
It will leave you with the question, what kind of builder are you?
Written by Russell Matthews based on a five star rating system @ Russelling Reviews
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