The story of a podcaster learning to become human.
If I read through the script then I would probably predict that I would find this movie repugnant, but, lo and behold, Robin Williams has such strong pathos as to melt even my stoney heart.
There is such pain and pathos with all these characters that lesser actors and less support would mean this movie would be absolutely awful–instead they find a way to wriggle past my defenses.
I found it…
(Director's Cut)
This movie is a vibe. So many weird lil guys, great creatures, and dreamlike story beats.
I miss when movies bore the unmistakable marks of being an adaption–where you have random characters with no explanation or background that are clearly from some book or comic (no, marvel/star wars' versions of easter eggs and tie ins don't count).
Does everything hang together? Not really, but weird guys fighting against fascists is definitely appreciated.
The characters are often kinda stereotypes but that is combated by the sweet tenderness and regard the movie has for the kids. The movie is not quite able to manage stereotypes with its scope, such as gay affects not being an indicator of orientation, but the satire of gender normativity is sharp, and the film manages to keep things light and sweet even when there's some extremely dark stuff.
The finale hit me well and I loved all the kids. The movie shows there is so much joy in being who you are and such absurdity in trying to stifle yourself.
Great acting, often beautiful shots, good editing, and yet a pretty awful movie. Didn't feel any sympathy for any character, the reveals felt flat, the events disjointed, and the main character often is treated like he is both simultaneously a weak nobody and super attractive manipulator, and neither fit him well.
The film often aims for profound but comes across as naive. Meaning to be subversive but ends up reinforcing existing power structures. Trying to be sexy but without believable…
