Wendell & Wild (2022) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Jordan Peele, Wendell & Wild (2022) is a unique stop-motion animated film that blends dark fantasy, humor, and a touch of the supernatural. With a distinctive visual style and an engaging story, the film offers a fresh take on the animated genre. In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Wendell & Wild follows the story of two mischievous demon brothers, Wendell (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key) and Wild (voiced by Jordan Peele), who are trying to escape their own personal hell. They discover a way to cross over into the human world through a series of supernatural and often comedic misadventures.
Their plan to bring chaos to the human world is complicated when they encounter Kat (voiced by Lyric Ross), a teenager with a troubled past who has her own personal demons to confront. As the worlds of the living and the dead collide, Kat, along with the demon brothers, must navigate a series of challenges that test their resolve and relationships.
The film explores themes of redemption, personal growth, and the struggle between good and evil, all while maintaining a humorous and darkly whimsical tone.
Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele’s Performances
Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele deliver standout performances as the demon brothers Wendell and Wild. Their comedic timing and voice work bring a unique charm and personality to the characters, adding both humor and depth to the film.
The chemistry between Key and Peele is a highlight, as their interactions and banter provide much of the film’s comedic appeal. Their performances contribute significantly to the film’s overall tone and entertainment value.
Lyric Ross’s Role
Lyric Ross voices Kat, the film’s human protagonist. Ross’s performance adds emotional depth to the film, as Kat’s character grapples with her own personal struggles and the challenges of her supernatural encounters. Her portrayal of Kat is both relatable and compelling, providing a strong emotional anchor for the story.
Henry Selick’s Direction
Henry Selick’s direction ensures that Wendell & Wild stands out with its distinctive stop-motion animation style. Selick’s expertise in the medium is evident in the film’s intricate and imaginative visuals, which create a rich and immersive world.
Selick’s direction balances the film’s dark themes with humor and whimsy, crafting a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film’s pacing and visual style contribute to its unique charm and appeal.
Themes of Redemption and Personal Growth
Wendell & Wild explores themes of redemption, personal growth, and the struggle between good and evil. The film’s narrative emphasizes the importance of confronting one’s past and seeking personal growth, as both the demon brothers and Kat face their own challenges and opportunities for change.
The film’s exploration of these themes adds emotional depth to the story, making it more than just a whimsical animated adventure.
What Works Well
The film’s unique stop-motion animation style and imaginative visuals are major highlights, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience. The performances by Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, and Lyric Ross add humor, charm, and emotional depth to the story.
Henry Selick’s direction effectively balances dark themes with humor and whimsy, resulting in a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film’s exploration of themes related to redemption and personal growth adds depth to the narrative.
What Falls Short
Some viewers may find the film’s dark humor and supernatural elements to be unconventional or less appealing, depending on personal preferences. Additionally, the film’s pacing and complexity may not be suited for all audiences, particularly younger viewers or those seeking a more straightforward animated adventure.
While the film’s unique style and themes are engaging, certain elements of the story may feel less accessible to those unfamiliar with Henry Selick’s previous work or the broader genre.
Where to Watch Wendell & Wild Online
For viewers in the United States, Wendell & Wild is available on the following streaming platform:
- Netflix
Wendell & Wild is available for streaming on Netflix, where it can be watched by subscribers with a Netflix account. The film is accessible in HD quality for an immersive viewing experience.
Is It Worth Watching?
Wendell & Wild (2022) offers a distinctive and engaging animated experience with its unique stop-motion style and imaginative storytelling. The film’s combination of dark humor, supernatural elements, and themes of redemption make it a compelling watch for fans of the genre.
The strong performances by Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, and Lyric Ross, along with Henry Selick’s expert direction, contribute to the film’s overall appeal. If you enjoy animated films with a blend of whimsy and depth, Wendell & Wild is worth watching.
Conclusion
Wendell & Wild (2022) provides a visually stunning and thought-provoking animated adventure, with standout performances and a unique stop-motion style. Directed by Henry Selick and featuring a blend of dark humor and whimsical storytelling, the film offers a fresh take on the animated genre. With its availability on Netflix, it’s easy to catch this imaginative and engaging film from the comfort of your home.
