The Wild Robot Review: The Animated Feature Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2024

When I first saw the moving trailer of The Wild Robot (the one without dialogue), I knew I would not miss watching this film in the cinema for anything, and boy was I right! By all accounts, The Wild Robot is a stunning achievement in animation that defies expectations and sets a new standard for family-friendly storytelling.

Directed by Chris Sanders, who’s better known for his work on How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch, this adaptation of Peter Brown’s novel gorgeously marries cutting-edge computer animation with an art style that looks like Renaissance paintings.

Our story begins with ROZZUM 7134 (simply going by “Roz”), a robot assistant voiced by Lupita Nyong’o. Roz finds herself shipwrecked on an uninhabited island filled with wildlife. Programmed by Universal Dynamics to serve her human masters, but with no humans in sight, Roz begins a journey of adaptation and self-discovery that shapes the emotional core of the film.

The island itself is a character brought to life through careful artistry. The attention to detail in depicting the island’s flora and fauna is a work of art, making the environment feel alive. However, what sets The Wild Robot apart is its willingness to tackle complex themes with grace and honesty.

Sanders doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of nature, including death and survival. When Roz accidentally orphans a gosling named Brightbill, her new purpose becomes that of mother, leading to some of the most touching and humorous moments in the film.

The voice cast does a great job across the board. Pedro Pascal brings charm and wit to Fink, a fox who becomes an unlikely ally of Roz. Mark Hamill gives Thorn, a grizzly bear, some much-needed gravitas, while Catherine O’Hara’s comedic touch makes Pinktail the opossum a quick favorite for audiences. Each character feels fully realized and intentional.

The Wild Robot also shines in its ability to balance humor, heart, and tension. Most of the film’s funny moments come from Roz having to contend with the wild unpredictability of the island. After all, she’s still a droid, powered by logic and reasoning. Still, the film never loses sight of its emotional core, where themes of family, belonging, and the nature of humanity are questioned at every turn.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the animation that deserves special praise. Unlike many modern CG animated films that aim for photorealism, The Wild Robot embraces a more aesthetic approach. This artistic choice not only sets it apart but also enhances the viewing experience in all its glory.

From the onset, I already knew that the musical score would be the film’s greatest strength, a sentiment that proved to be true. Kris Bowers’ score complements the visuals beautifully, amplifying the emotional beats without overpowering them. When Maren Morris’ “Kiss the Sky” starts playing, just grab some tissues and get ready to wail with joy.

Though The Wild Robot excels in nearly every aspect, some viewers might find the pacing a bit leisurely compared to more frenetic animated features. Surprisingly, this deliberate pace allows for moments of quiet beauty and reflection, both for the film’s characters and the audience.

I’ve been skeptical about G-rated films lately, but The Wild Robot proves that family films can be intelligent, emotionally resonant, and entertaining. DreamWorks has really outdone itself by creating a modern classic that will likely be celebrated for years to come. The Wild Robot has now joined Puss in Boots: The Last Wish in the list of animated features that should be watched on the big screen. Trust me, don’t make the mistake of waiting for digital release to view it.