Review: Christopher Robin (2018)
'It's always a sunny day, when Christopher Robin comes to play.'
★★★★
Ah, the Hundred Acre Wood. Such a marvelous place! If you were born in the 90s or early 2000s, "Winnie the Pooh" was probably a staple on your TV. While I didn’t grow up watching the show, I did have a stuffed Piglet and still own a Winnie the Pooh toy. My strongest nostalgia for Winnie the Pooh comes from a computer game I played as a child titled "Disney's Tigger Activity Center," which I might review soon. I spent countless hours on that game, which is why I'm familiar with the world of Winnie the Pooh.
Our tale begins with an adult Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor) has grown up and lost touch with his childhood imagination. Now a workaholic in London, he struggles to balance his demanding job with his family life. When Winnie the Pooh (Jim Cummings) unexpectedly reappears, Christopher reluctantly returns to the Hundred Acre Wood to help Pooh find his friends, who have mysteriously vanished. Along the way, he rediscovers the joy and wonder of his youth, learning valuable lessons about prioritizing love and happiness over work. The film beautifully blends heartfelt nostalgia with whimsical adventure, bringing the beloved characters to life in a touching story about reconnecting with what truly matters.
This movie is wonderful, not only for kids but for adults as well. In fact, I believe the themes and morals will resonate more with adults, as the sad reality is that many parents behave like Christopher Robin. The movie’s performances, particularly by Ewan McGregor, are exceptional. You can feel his frustration, stress, love, happiness, and development, as well as his chemistry with Hayley Atwell, Bronte Carmichael, and all the creatures from the Hundred Acre Wood. It’s amazing to see real human actors interact with CGI characters, showcasing how far technology has come. Now, I really want to give Winnie the Pooh a hug!
The film also does an excellent job of balancing humor with heartfelt moments. The whimsical antics of Pooh and his friends provide plenty of laughs, while the storyline reminds us of the importance of friendship and the bonds we create throughout our lives. Each character, from Tigger's boundless energy to Eeyore's lovable gloom, adds depth to the narrative, making it impossible not to feel a connection with them.
Visually, the animation is stunning, capturing the charm of the Hundred Acre Wood in vibrant detail. The colorful landscapes and playful storytelling draw viewers into this enchanting world, making it feel like a cozy blanket from our childhood. The music, too, complements the storytelling, evoking emotions that enhance both the lighthearted and more poignant moments.
Ultimately, this film serves as a gentle reminder to cherish our memories and to hold onto the joys of our childhood, no matter how busy life gets. It encourages us to reconnect with the simple pleasures that often get overshadowed by adult responsibilities. Whether you’re revisiting these characters for the first time in years or introducing them to a new generation, this movie is sure to leave a lasting impression and reignite the childlike wonder that resides within us all.