The Imaginary Is A Visual Delight As It Brings Our Childhood Adventures To Life
The concept of imagination and imaginary friends has been a fascinating subject to explore in film this year with the horror film Imaginary and the fantasy comedy IF. Now acclaimed animator Yoshiyuki Momose brings us a stunning hand-drawn look into the world of make-believe in Netflix’s The Imaginary.
Based on the novel by A.F. Harrold comes a spirited adventure through the eyes of Amanda (Evie Kiszel) and her imaginary friend Rudger (Louie Rudge-Buchanan). Imagined to help Amanda deal with loneliness after losing her father, a terrible accident leaves Rudger on his own with fears of being forgotten and at risk of disappearing forever. As he faces a sinister threat to his own existence, he finds new purpose in the Town of Imaginaries where forgotten Imaginaries live and work.
Studio Ponoc sets the stage for its wondrous storytelling in The Imaginary beautifully with its imaginative and whimsical animation. To add drama and depth, this team pioneered first-of-their-kind techniques of light and shadow when it came to its hand-drawn animation style. Every scene is a visual delight as they pair vibrant colors, intricate details, unique character design, and powerful emotions together to bring both the real and imaginary worlds to life. There is a coziness to the adventures explored in The Imaginary that reminded me of fan favorites like Hilda and Sweet Tooth.
What helps The Imaginary stand apart from the recent films about imaginary friends is that this story centers Rudger’s experience. He is our guide through this fantastical world as he strives for reconnection and to break down the barriers between our childhood memories and growing up. It is particularly thrilling to see the world open up for us as viewers through the lens of the ultimate tool for imagination: the library. Despite all of his adventures, Rudger is willing to risk everything for the people he loves, even if that means coming face to face with the inevitable end. The Imaginary devouring Mr. Bunting nails the creep factor as Rudger’s biggest advesary, but it’s his sidekick, who looks like the girl from The Ring, who is guaranteed to deliver nightmares.
The Imaginary will unlock your most treasured childhood memories and remind you that you are braver than you think, especially when you have a good friend (invisible or not) by your side. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, the power of imagination is in all of us; sometimes we just need a little reminder.
Get ready to take your imagination to new heights when The Imaginary hits Netflix on July 5.
