Strange Magic (2015) Review: A Fantastical Musical Adventure with Heart
Introduction
“Strange Magic” (2015), directed by Gary Rydstrom, is an animated musical fantasy film produced by Lucasfilm and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. Known for its vibrant animation and a soundtrack featuring classic pop songs, the film is a whimsical and enchanting tale set in a magical world. The story combines romance, adventure, and comedy, making it a delightful experience for viewers of all ages.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, and musical elements, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “Strange Magic” online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
“Strange Magic” is set in a fantastical realm divided into two distinct worlds: the Fairy Kingdom and the Dark Forest. The story revolves around Princess Marianne (voiced by Evan Rachel Wood), who is heartbroken after a recent breakup and becomes disillusioned with love. Her sister, Princess Dawn (voiced by Meredith Anne Bull), is preparing for a grand romantic event, but her happiness is threatened by a dark force.
The film’s central conflict begins when the dark sorcerer, King Roland (voiced by Alan Cumming), seeks to use a powerful magical flower to control the fairy world. In the Dark Forest, the scheming Bog King (voiced by Jim Parsons) is also intent on obtaining the flower for his own nefarious purposes.
The plot follows Marianne as she embarks on a quest to stop the dark forces and protect her kingdom. Along the way, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, including the charming elf, Sunny (voiced by Elijah Kelley), and the mischievous and magical creatures of the forest. The film’s narrative is a blend of romance, adventure, and comedy, culminating in a heartwarming resolution.
Themes and Emotional Impact
“Strange Magic” explores themes of love, forgiveness, and self-discovery. The film’s narrative highlights the transformative power of love and the importance of believing in oneself. Marianne’s journey from heartbreak to self-acceptance and understanding is central to the film’s emotional impact.
The film also emphasizes the value of forgiveness and second chances. Through its characters’ experiences and interactions, “Strange Magic” conveys a message of resilience and the possibility of finding happiness even after facing adversity.
The whimsical and magical elements of the story add to its charm, creating an engaging and uplifting experience for audiences. The film’s blend of adventure and romance, along with its vibrant animation, contributes to its overall emotional appeal.
Musical Elements
One of the standout features of “Strange Magic” is its musical score, which features a diverse selection of popular songs from various genres. The film’s soundtrack includes classic hits such as “Sugar Pie Honey Bunch” by The Four Tops, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, and “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” by The Four Tops.
The music plays a significant role in the film, enhancing its emotional and narrative elements. The songs are integrated into the story in a way that complements the action and character development, adding to the film’s entertainment value.
The musical numbers are performed by the film’s voice cast, including Evan Rachel Wood, Jim Parsons, and Elijah Kelley. Their performances contribute to the film’s vibrant and engaging atmosphere, making the musical aspect a memorable part of the experience.
Animation and Visuals
The animation in “Strange Magic” is colorful and imaginative, capturing the fantastical elements of the story with vibrant visuals. The film’s design effectively brings the magical worlds of the Fairy Kingdom and the Dark Forest to life, with detailed character designs and visually appealing backgrounds.
The use of bright colors and dynamic animation contributes to the film’s whimsical and enchanting atmosphere. The visual style enhances the storytelling and adds to the overall enjoyment of the film.
Where to Watch “Strange Magic” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Strange Magic,” here are some options to consider for streaming or purchase in the U.S.:
Streaming Services:
- Disney+: As a Disney film, “Strange Magic” is available for streaming on Disney+, where you can watch it as part of the platform’s extensive library of Disney and Lucasfilm content.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “Strange Magic” in HD for approximately $3.99 or purchase it for around $14.99, depending on availability.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film may be available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “Strange Magic” can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Vudu may offer both rental and purchase options for “Strange Magic,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.
Conclusion
“Strange Magic” (2015) is a charming and imaginative animated musical that combines romance, adventure, and comedy in a magical setting. With its engaging plot, vibrant animation, and memorable soundtrack, the film offers a delightful experience for viewers of all ages.
Whether you are drawn to its whimsical story, its musical elements, or its enchanting visuals, “Strange Magic” provides a fun and uplifting film experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s accessible for those looking to enjoy this captivating and heartwarming adventure.
