Legendary filmmaker, animator, and voice actor Chris Sanders (known for Aladdin, Lilo & Stitch, and The Call of the Wild) returns to the big screen with The Wild Robot, a captivating new adventure from DreamWorks Animation. Adapted from Peter Brown’s popular 2016 novel of the same name, this heart-warming story is brought to life by an impressive voice cast, that includes Lupita Nyong’o (Twelve Years A Slave, Us, A Quiet Place: Day One), Pedro Pascal (The Mandalorian, The Last Of Us), Kit Connor (Heartstopper), Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Catherine O’Hara, Matt Berry, and Ving Rhames.
At the heart of Wild Robot is the tale of Roz (voiced by Nyong’o), a robot who finds herself stranded on an uninhabited island after a shipwreck. Left alone in the wilderness, Roz must adapt to her new surroundings and find a way to survive. In an unexpected turn of events, Roz becomes the adoptive mother of Brightbill (Connor), a young goose whose family she unintentionally kills after a fall. This unlikely bond between a machine and a vulnerable orphan is at the core of the film, driving both its emotional and narrative arcs.
Adding an extra layer of adventure and humour, Roz enlists the help of Fink (voiced by Pedro Pascal), a wily and resourceful red fox with a sharp wit and plenty of tricks up his sleeve. Roz, Brightbill, and Fink navigate the challenges of the wild—facing natural threats, harsh weather, and the complexities of survival. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique quirks and wisdom, creating a rich and immersive world that audiences will be eager to explore.
Chris Sanders, who has a talent for balancing action, humour and heartfelt emotion, delivers a truly multifaceted film. The Wild Robot is much more than just a survival story; it’s also a touching exploration of family, identity, and environmental stewardship. Sanders’ direction skilfully balances the film’s thrilling set pieces with moments of quiet reflection, allowing viewers of all ages to connect with the characters and the deeper themes at play.
With stunning animation that brings the island’s ecosystem to life—from the rustling forests to the wide-open skies—the film immerses viewers in the beauty and unpredictability of nature. The animation team excels at capturing both the mechanical precision of Roz and the organic beauty of the natural world. This contrast also reinforces the film’s timely environmental message, reminding us of the delicate balance between human innovation and the natural world.
In addition to its thoughtful themes, The Wild Robot is packed with humour and excitement, ensuring that the entire family will be entertained. Fink, in particular, provides a great deal of comic relief with his clever schemes and playful one-liners. Nyong’o brings warmth, depth and wisdom to Roz, who by the end begins to show more human traits than most humans.
Ultimately, The Wild Robot is one of Sanders’ best works to date. It’s a film that manages to be both fun and meaningful. The Wild Robot is poised to become a beloved classic for children and adults alike. This truly is a real treat for all the family.
