Where The Wild Things Are

A childhood classic turned into an effective silver screen popcorn adventure? I recently revisited this film with my wife, who is an elementary teacher, so she is very familiar with the original child’s picture book. I have to say that the first time that I saw this film I was left wanting more, but upon a second viewing I was much more content after the credits rolled. And I believe that she summarized it perfectly; “It was a good portrayal of the children’s book.” I would have to agree.

The film follows Max who runs away from home and travels to an island where the wild things are (I just had to use that in a sentence somewhere). There he finds monsters that take him as their king and they go about their days building forts, having dirt clod fights, and running through the woods screaming and growling - Which is a formula for the perfect kid’s day ever. Of course there is a falling out and Max has to keep the peace by winning the love and adoration of his large friends back.

The film has an excellent musical backdrop that keeps the action and adventure moving while acting as a perfect aid to the this new world of fun, fascination, and imagination. Although you would think this film would be semi-exclusively for kids only, it has a lot of cinematic elements that adults will undoubtedly love too. It’s also a visual spectacle; from the CG’d/puppeted creatures, to the amazing landscapes, to the beautiful use of natural light that encompasses the film.

This film is a good excuse for adults to relive all of those childhood days where life was simpler. Go in with an open mind and let yourself go. There’s nothing wrong with using film as a catalyst to escape into another time / realm / world/ state of mind – isn’t that what film is used for anyways?

Rating: 9/10