Shadows on the Wall

Leo

dir Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, David Wachtenheim
scr Robert Smigel, Adam Sandler, Paul Sado
prd Adam Sandler, Mireille Soria
voices Adam Sandler, Bill Burr, Cecily Strong, Sadie Sandler, Sunny Sandler, Rob Schneider, Jo Koy, Jason Alexander, Allison Strong, Heidi Gardner, Nick Swardson, Stephanie Hsu
release US/UK 24.Nov.23
23/US Netflix 1h42

Is it streaming?

This animated comedy makes up for its relatively standard design with colourful characters, snappy dialog, witty songs and an involving narrative. Sure, things get extremely corny as the movie powers into an absurd action-mayhem climax, but along the way there are plenty of riotous touches that will keep both younger and older viewers chuckling. And without laying it on too thickly, the quick-paced story delivers a strong message.

In a 5th grade classroom, lizard Leonardo (Sandler) with his terrarium-mate tortoise Squirtle (Burr) take a good look at this year's crop of students as well as harsh new teacher Ms Malkin (Strong). Then the 74-year-old Leo learns that lizards live 75 years, so he decides to escape and have new experiences. But as he goes home for weekends with various students, he's distracted from running away by helping them with their issues, and his previously hidden ability to talk ends up transforming their school year. He also might be able to help Ms Malkin.

As the plot zips along, the screen is peppered with hilarious gags and movie references, many of which are aimed at adults in the audience, while the story and the generally silly tone target the kids. There are also genuinely emotional touches that miraculously avoid becoming schmaltzy. Instead, they make the flawed characters easier to identify with. So while the plot takes some rather formulaic turns, it remains refreshingly engaging. And it cleverly connects these oddball kids with iconic historical figures.

Even if the characters and sets have that usual slick but plasticky look to them, the animation is packed with amusing details and throwaway jokes. Several characters emerge with complex personalities that break free from expectations, especially in the way they react with each other. All of this is augmented by the enjoyably expressive voice cast. And the imagery smartly plays on the perspectives of both kids and critters, adding some visual panache in a lively detour into the Everglades.

Even as the slapstick accelerates into full-fledged goofiness, there are strong underlying themes that have a solid impact. Among the songs by writer-director Robert Smigel, the standout is the remarkably thoughtful When I Was Ten, looking at how life gets more complex and challenging the older we get. And the story's most powerful message is that all of us need to find someone we can speak to about our problems. But most of all, the movie makes us want to have a pet as playful as Leo.

themes, innuendo 22.Nov.23

R E A D E R R E V I E W S

Still waiting for your comments ... don't be shy.