Norm of the North (2016) Movie Review
Introduction
“Norm of the North,” released in 2016, is an animated family film directed by Trevor Wall. The movie follows Norm, a polar bear who travels to New York City to stop a greedy developer from building condos in his Arctic home. While the film aims to deliver a message about environmental conservation, its execution has garnered mixed reviews. In this article, we will delve into the plot, characters, and overall reception of the movie, as well as provide information on where you can stream or purchase “Norm of the North” in the United States.
Plot Summary
Norm, a fun-loving polar bear, has an unusual talent: he can speak to humans. This ability makes him an outcast among his fellow Arctic inhabitants, but it becomes crucial when his home is threatened. A real estate developer named Mr. Greene plans to build luxury condos in the Arctic, which would disrupt the natural habitat. Norm decides to travel to New York City to thwart Greene’s plans.
In New York, Norm teams up with a marketing executive named Vera and her daughter, Olympia. Together, they devise a plan to expose Mr. Greene’s unethical intentions. Norm’s journey is filled with comedic misadventures, including auditions, dance-offs, and attempts to navigate human society.
Characters and Voice Cast
- Norm (voiced by Rob Schneider): The protagonist, a talking polar bear with a big heart and a determination to save his home.
- Vera (voiced by Heather Graham): A marketing executive who becomes Norm’s ally in the fight against Mr. Greene.
- Olympia (voiced by Maya Kay): Vera’s intelligent and resourceful daughter.
- Mr. Greene (voiced by Ken Jeong): The antagonist, a greedy real estate developer with plans to exploit the Arctic.
Reception and Critique
“Norm of the North” received largely negative reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film holds a low rating on Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, with many citing its weak plot, lackluster animation, and overuse of clichéd humor. Despite its good intentions and environmental message, the execution falls short, making it less appealing to both children and adults.
Positive Aspects
- Message: The film’s core message about environmental conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats is commendable.
- Voice Acting: Rob Schneider, Heather Graham, and Ken Jeong deliver solid performances, bringing their characters to life with enthusiasm.
Negative Aspects
- Animation Quality: Compared to other animated films released in the same period, “Norm of the North” suffers from subpar animation quality.
- Humor: The humor often relies on tired stereotypes and slapstick comedy, which may not resonate well with all audiences.
- Plot: The storyline is predictable and lacks depth, making it less engaging for viewers looking for a more substantial narrative.
Where to Watch “Norm of the North” in the USA
For those interested in watching “Norm of the North,” there are several streaming services and platforms where the film is available:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: “Norm of the North” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription or rent/purchase it separately.
- Netflix: At times, “Norm of the North” is available on Netflix. Availability may vary, so it is recommended to check the current catalog.
- Hulu: Occasionally, the film may also appear on Hulu. Check Hulu’s library for availability.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: In addition to streaming, you can rent or purchase “Norm of the North” on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchase prices vary from $7.99 to $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play. Rental prices usually start at $2.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $14.99.
- iTunes: “Norm of the North” is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. Rental prices are around $3.99, and purchase prices are approximately $9.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. Rental costs are typically $2.99 to $3.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
Conclusion
“Norm of the North” may not be a critical darling, but it offers a family-friendly adventure with an important message about environmental conservation. Despite its flaws, the film has found a place in the hearts of younger audiences. For those interested in watching, it is readily available on various streaming services and rental platforms in the United States. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, “Norm of the North” provides an accessible way to enjoy this polar bear’s city escapade.
