2024 has proved that animated movies are not just for kids, and director Chris Sanders has made that clear. His latest directorial venture, The Wild Robot, was everything I didn’t expect it to be. The film might look like any normal CGI robot-based story from the trailer, but it has more heart than many human-told stories these days. According to me, this film is easily one of the best animated experiences of the year—and possibly the standout movie of 2024 as well.
Watching it in a dark theatre, surrounded by fellow moviegoers and some noisy kids, surely added to the magic. This film is based on Peter Brown’s beloved 2016 children’s book of the same title, The Wild Robot. Folks have cherished these stories for years, with well-worn copies gracing countless kids’ bookshelves.
Meet Roz, The Mother
The Wild Robot is an enchanting animated fable that explores the journey of an android washed ashore on a remote island, where it learns to adapt and form bonds with the local wildlife, who aren’t very welcoming to their new guest. After accidentally causing the demise of a nesting goose, ROZZUM Unit 7134, aka Roz (voiced by Lupita Nyong’o), discovers a lone survivor egg and takes on the task of adopting the orphaned gosling, whom she names Brightbill (voiced by Kit Connor).
She teaches him all the “bird” stuff (like eating and flying) with the help of her friend Fink the Fox (voiced by Pedro Pascal), as Brightbill needs to join the migration troupe in the fall to survive. P.S: Fink is literally the animal version of Pedro Pascal.
Throughout her journey, Roz slowly learns to communicate, not just mentally but also emotionally. (Yes, a robot with emotions—maybe she can meet Chitti one day, if you know what I mean.) Her friend circle includes a mother possum whose kids are quite the handful, a bear, some adorable otters, and more. As she raises Brightbill, she unlocks maternal instincts and teaches him essential life skills, forging a bond that deepens her understanding of love and connection.
But as they say, good things don’t last long, and Roz finds herself in a difficult position where she must choose between being a robot or being with Brightbill. There are so many scenes and dialogues in the movie that will prompt you to think deeply about the issues the world is facing at the moment, as cinema reflects life.
The film’s visuals pay homage to early 2000s Disney-Pixar animations, backed by tunes from Bridgerton composer Kris Bowers, who creates an emotional tapestry that pulls at your heartstrings. The voice cast truly brought their A-game to bring these characters to life with vibrant energy.
A Must Watch
The Wild Robot captures the essence of parenting and ecological responsibility, reminding us of the bonds that unite us with the planet and with each other. With its sweeping landscapes, clever dark humour, and thoughtful pacing, this film leads to an emotional conclusion that resonates deeply.
Brownie points to production designer Raymond Zibach and head of story Heidi Jo Gilbert for their contributions to this modern masterpiece. If you don’t feel a little misty while watching it, you might want to check your pulse. I shed a tear when Roz said “I am a wild robot”. Another dialogue that left a lasting impression was “Fly like you, not like them”. Goodbye now, you will find me sobbing in the washroom.
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