181 reviews
I went with low expectations about this film because the trailers looked like the movie wasn't good, but after watching it i can say it's really worth the ticket.
Visually there's nothing to complain about here the ducks and all kinds of birds that appear here look nice and are really expresive.
Soundwise nothing outstanding, decent, you can hear every character clearly because all was mixed well. The ambient for all scenarios is done pretty well too (Swamps, cities, forrest)
Storywise This is what i liked the most because it's not that dumb for an illumination movie, it has drama and funny moments throughout the entire run, but nothing too deep, just enough to be entertaining.
I would say if you go alone or with your family you'll have a good time.
Visually there's nothing to complain about here the ducks and all kinds of birds that appear here look nice and are really expresive.
Soundwise nothing outstanding, decent, you can hear every character clearly because all was mixed well. The ambient for all scenarios is done pretty well too (Swamps, cities, forrest)
Storywise This is what i liked the most because it's not that dumb for an illumination movie, it has drama and funny moments throughout the entire run, but nothing too deep, just enough to be entertaining.
I would say if you go alone or with your family you'll have a good time.
This animation was awesome to watch. The experience after seeing this I was so fresh and I got relief from on going mental stress as well.
The comedy scenes and the cuteness of the character Gwen Mallard was just beyond my expectations. The character of Dax Mallard as the son of Mack Mallard was so daring and challenging and it was nice to see some shadow of his father Mack Mallard. Also the character of Uncle Dan gaves amusement more. Especially the character of Mack Mallard shows us the responsibility how we need to take in our full of problems of life. Pam Mallard's role wife of Mack Mallard's was also noticeable her support to her husband is great to see.
Overall the animation attracts me cause it's childishness cuteness of those characters.
I feel really glad to giving a feedback on this animation.
Regards.
Ashiq Mridha.
The comedy scenes and the cuteness of the character Gwen Mallard was just beyond my expectations. The character of Dax Mallard as the son of Mack Mallard was so daring and challenging and it was nice to see some shadow of his father Mack Mallard. Also the character of Uncle Dan gaves amusement more. Especially the character of Mack Mallard shows us the responsibility how we need to take in our full of problems of life. Pam Mallard's role wife of Mack Mallard's was also noticeable her support to her husband is great to see.
Overall the animation attracts me cause it's childishness cuteness of those characters.
I feel really glad to giving a feedback on this animation.
Regards.
Ashiq Mridha.
I'll admit it, even though I am in my early 30s, I still enjoy watching animated movies, and animated shows. Sometimes I think there are certain things with animated films that can't be done with live-action movies, or maybe I'm wrong on that. Anway, Ok, Migration, the duck movie, or is it mallards the preferred word? No idea, not exactly an expert on ducks here, , anyway, I just saw it at my local movie theater, went to a 11:55 am showing, and I'll say this, I felt actually surprised. Does this movie do anything groundbreaking or anything that changes the landscape of animated movies going forward? No. However, I genuinely enjoyed it. Ok, maybe the plot is kind of simple, a few members of a duck family, including the mother duck wants to migrate, to explore the world, to see more outside their pond and see what more whats beyond her pond. The Dad duck, Mack voiced by Kumail Nanjiani , he has so many good lines in this movie. Mack is not really willing or wanting to explore anything behind his pond, his known "comfort zone." The mom duck , Pam, and their kids, Dax, and. Gwen help Mack understand reason they have to. And what happens next is a journey of encounters with friendly or not friendly other animals along the way, madcap adventures, getting lost a few times, along the way, an accidental visit to New York City and a wise-cracking pigeon leader, and so much more, which I promise I will not spoil for anybody who does decide to go see this in the movie theater. I personally had a good time watching it, made me smile, made me laugh, the animation is very good, I like the characters. Danny DeVito voices Uncle Dan, he is such a very funny, caring older Uncle and he usually says whatever comes to mind, he has some good lines too. Elizabeth Banks as Pam, mother duck , is a character who longs to explore a world outside her pond, and wants to have more experiences than just being stuck in one place, I liked her character quite a bit. Dax is a pretty awesome character, he is the younger duck, who keeps wanting to help his Dad and keeps wanting to explore try new things no matter the risk , but keeps getting told, not help, to mostly stay out of the way, until something he does at the end, not going to say anymore on that. And Gwen , is the sister, to Dax, oh my goodness, Gwen is super charming, a huge highlight of the movie I think. Gwen has this moment later in the movie, where she goes to her brother, Dax, and gives him a hug, and keeps hugging him, to comfort her brother, after Dax walks away from his family after something happens. It felt like something an actual sister would do to help comfort her brother, I think. Overall really enjoyed it, wasn't really excepting much going in to see it, felt genuinely surprised, very heartfelt and just a fun good movie. Two thumbs up. Or two webbed feet up?
I think I should rank the animated movies I have seen this year,
1: Boy and the Heron 2: Across the Spider-Verse 3: Migration 4: Teenage Turtle Mutant Turtles Mayhem 5: Super Mario.
I think I should rank the animated movies I have seen this year,
1: Boy and the Heron 2: Across the Spider-Verse 3: Migration 4: Teenage Turtle Mutant Turtles Mayhem 5: Super Mario.
- jeff-kutach
- Dec 25, 2023
- Permalink
I couldn't resist the chance to watch "Migration" ahead of its Boxing Day release date. From start to finish, my love for "Migration" only grew stronger. The film is an absolute delight - it's not just super cute and funny, but it's also packed with heartwarming moments that tug at your emotions. The characters bring such warmth and charm that you can't help but be drawn into their world.
Beyond the humor and cuteness, "Migration" delivers a great message to stop waiting for life to happen to you. The animation is nothing short of fantastic, bringing the story to life with vibrant visuals and captivating sequences. "Migration" is a perfect blend of laughter, heart, and visual brilliance that makes it a must-watch for animation enthusiasts of all ages.
Beyond the humor and cuteness, "Migration" delivers a great message to stop waiting for life to happen to you. The animation is nothing short of fantastic, bringing the story to life with vibrant visuals and captivating sequences. "Migration" is a perfect blend of laughter, heart, and visual brilliance that makes it a must-watch for animation enthusiasts of all ages.
Overall, not a half bad illumination movie.
The movie's environments were beautiful. Easily my favorite part of the movie. I loved the watercolor-esque trees. Also, the designs of some of the humans, especially the main antagonist, are pretty nice and creative. The jokes weren't nearly as "cringey", and landed for the most part. (hah, get it, cause the movies about ducks... migrating). The humor in this movie feels more family-focused, rather than purely for the kids.
As for the negatives, the story is fairly linear, and not too interesting. The overall theme is very obvious, so it isn't too deep. All in all, a typical illumination movie.
Overall, a decent Illumination movie. Just plain family fun. If you want to be fairly entertained, and laugh with your kiddos, this is a good movie.
The movie's environments were beautiful. Easily my favorite part of the movie. I loved the watercolor-esque trees. Also, the designs of some of the humans, especially the main antagonist, are pretty nice and creative. The jokes weren't nearly as "cringey", and landed for the most part. (hah, get it, cause the movies about ducks... migrating). The humor in this movie feels more family-focused, rather than purely for the kids.
As for the negatives, the story is fairly linear, and not too interesting. The overall theme is very obvious, so it isn't too deep. All in all, a typical illumination movie.
Overall, a decent Illumination movie. Just plain family fun. If you want to be fairly entertained, and laugh with your kiddos, this is a good movie.
- OddityReviewsStuff
- Dec 22, 2023
- Permalink
'Migration' is a really well-made family film. It's a simple premise about anthropomorphic ducks - the father duck, Mack (Nanjiani), wants to protect his children/chicks, Dax (Jennings) and Gwen (Gazal), and the mother duck, Pam (Banks), wants them to experience the world and gain some experience. They meet some other ducks migrating south for the winter - they're presumably in North-Eastern USA - so they decide to do the same, with quirky uncle Dan (DeVito) in tow.
What follows is both a semi-familiar road-trip comedy, as well as a refreshing take on family, trying new things and helping others. There's a great support cast, as the duck family passes through New York City and meets Chump the pigeon (Awkwafina), Delroy the macaw (Key), as well as Erin the heron (Kane) and GooGoo (Mitchell) - either a goose or a white duck. There's a nice jail-break sequence for Delroy, which sets up the human antagonist, the Chef.
For some reason the Chef also has a Chinook and hunts them down, leading to Dax and Gwen having to step-up. The animation is a nice mix of cartoonish and realistic, and it looks excellent, especially at the end. There's no overly-scary moments, some teachable themes, the voice cast is all good and there's consistent laughs throughout. There's also 'Mooned', the 9-min 'Despicable Me' tie-in at the start of the film, which kids seemed to love.
What follows is both a semi-familiar road-trip comedy, as well as a refreshing take on family, trying new things and helping others. There's a great support cast, as the duck family passes through New York City and meets Chump the pigeon (Awkwafina), Delroy the macaw (Key), as well as Erin the heron (Kane) and GooGoo (Mitchell) - either a goose or a white duck. There's a nice jail-break sequence for Delroy, which sets up the human antagonist, the Chef.
For some reason the Chef also has a Chinook and hunts them down, leading to Dax and Gwen having to step-up. The animation is a nice mix of cartoonish and realistic, and it looks excellent, especially at the end. There's no overly-scary moments, some teachable themes, the voice cast is all good and there's consistent laughs throughout. There's also 'Mooned', the 9-min 'Despicable Me' tie-in at the start of the film, which kids seemed to love.
GREAT VALUES, LOVELY STORY, NO EXPLICIT THEMES!! I honestly took a step back when I first saw this. I am ALWAYS extremely critical of movies lately, especially since recently Illumination, Disney, and even a recent Dreamworks movie have fallen flat, but wow!
This is truly a family film that is appealing to ALL audiences. Kids have laughs at gags, adults have entertainment from parenting and general themes, and they even poke fun at grandparents, who still are made out to be cool and fun-loving by the end.
From both a filmmaker and huge movie fan's perspective, it is extremely refreshing to see a kids movie have good values, no explicit themes, and still be very entertaining! The story and plot was well worked out and everything made sense. The music was fantastic (a solid original score, no spammed pop music like most kids movies). The animation was adorable and very enjoyable to watch. It was also super refreshing to see new/underground talents showcased! A lot of less known names but a fantastic job done (especially the voice actors)!
I'm really impressed and wish to express from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making such a great family film, creating a safe space for families to enjoy a movie without oversexualized themed, over the top toilet humor, extreme violence, etc. 9/10!!!
This is truly a family film that is appealing to ALL audiences. Kids have laughs at gags, adults have entertainment from parenting and general themes, and they even poke fun at grandparents, who still are made out to be cool and fun-loving by the end.
From both a filmmaker and huge movie fan's perspective, it is extremely refreshing to see a kids movie have good values, no explicit themes, and still be very entertaining! The story and plot was well worked out and everything made sense. The music was fantastic (a solid original score, no spammed pop music like most kids movies). The animation was adorable and very enjoyable to watch. It was also super refreshing to see new/underground talents showcased! A lot of less known names but a fantastic job done (especially the voice actors)!
I'm really impressed and wish to express from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making such a great family film, creating a safe space for families to enjoy a movie without oversexualized themed, over the top toilet humor, extreme violence, etc. 9/10!!!
Migration is just a simple adventure, but still an enjoyable film on its own. It does have a predictable story and an unneeded villain for a movie about migrating. But it still provides things to be a decent film thanks to great animation, some cute jokes that I at least chuckled, and as someone that loves to travel, it does have the heart of venturing the world. I think it would be worth watching at least once. But I do think that the kids will love it for the funny characters and a tale that they will easily get into more than adults would. Like The Super Mario Bros Movie and the other films Illumination has made, it's not the best movie of the year. I do think this movie is pretty simple, but pretty cute for a migrate adventure.
- TheMysteriousReviewer
- Dec 29, 2023
- Permalink
- rohanumpleby-34057
- Feb 14, 2024
- Permalink
The animation is colorful, action starts relatively early and is well spaced-out. The jokes were appropriate. My kids are aged 10 and 14, they both enjoyed it. There were kids of all ages in the theatre and I could hear laughs all the time. Perfect for the holidays and also has a great soundtrack.
The storyline is obvious in the title, but the journey was full of surprises enough to keep you on the edge. There were useful lessons to be learned and a morale to the story.
The last film I had seen at the cinema was Super Mario and "Migration" has delivered the same clean family entertainment that we have been missing.
Highly recommended.
The storyline is obvious in the title, but the journey was full of surprises enough to keep you on the edge. There were useful lessons to be learned and a morale to the story.
The last film I had seen at the cinema was Super Mario and "Migration" has delivered the same clean family entertainment that we have been missing.
Highly recommended.
- m_al_saeed
- Dec 15, 2023
- Permalink
I recently watched the movie Migration (2023) in theaters with my daughter. The storyline follows a northeastern family of ducks 🦆 who encounter a flock of migrating birds that invite them to fly south for the winter. Despite their usual winter stay, the family convinces the dad to fly to Jamaica 🇯🇲 this year, and an adventure ensues.
This movie is co-directed by Benjamin Renner (Ernest & Celestine) and Guylo Homsy (Eddie's Life Coach) and features the voices of Kumail Nanjiani (Stuber), Danny DeVito (Twins), Awkwafina (Crazy Rich Asians), Keegan-Michael Key (Wonka), and Elizabeth Banks (The Hunger Games).
The animation in this picture is outstanding, while the rest of the film is fairly average. The storyline is straightforward, with a few worthwhile subplots. I particularly enjoyed the husband and wife working together through various circumstances for the betterment of the family. The voices are well selected, and Awkwafina and DeVito comedic content keep the film well-paced. The conclusion is as expected, though its sequel potential remains uncertain.
In conclusion, Migration is a fun family animated picture with enough worthwhile elements to make it worth a watch, but it doesn't stand out in the genre. I would score this a 5.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.
This movie is co-directed by Benjamin Renner (Ernest & Celestine) and Guylo Homsy (Eddie's Life Coach) and features the voices of Kumail Nanjiani (Stuber), Danny DeVito (Twins), Awkwafina (Crazy Rich Asians), Keegan-Michael Key (Wonka), and Elizabeth Banks (The Hunger Games).
The animation in this picture is outstanding, while the rest of the film is fairly average. The storyline is straightforward, with a few worthwhile subplots. I particularly enjoyed the husband and wife working together through various circumstances for the betterment of the family. The voices are well selected, and Awkwafina and DeVito comedic content keep the film well-paced. The conclusion is as expected, though its sequel potential remains uncertain.
In conclusion, Migration is a fun family animated picture with enough worthwhile elements to make it worth a watch, but it doesn't stand out in the genre. I would score this a 5.5/10 and recommend seeing it once.
- kevin_robbins
- Dec 29, 2023
- Permalink
The trailer made this look like it was a film the family could enjoy but I think it is more aimed at kids.
There are a few (rather lame) jokes that adults can appreciate but this is really just about getting fast moving bright colours on the screen.
There is no real story just a bunch of stuff that happens, normally ending in some of the birds tumbling through a door.
This is well made for what it is and I am pretty sure that younger kids will get a kick out of it but this is the kind of film where it comes on the TV in 6 months times and it feels vaguely familiar but you can't really remeber why.
There are a few (rather lame) jokes that adults can appreciate but this is really just about getting fast moving bright colours on the screen.
There is no real story just a bunch of stuff that happens, normally ending in some of the birds tumbling through a door.
This is well made for what it is and I am pretty sure that younger kids will get a kick out of it but this is the kind of film where it comes on the TV in 6 months times and it feels vaguely familiar but you can't really remeber why.
- thekarmicnomad
- Feb 9, 2024
- Permalink
- PeriBloxV2
- Dec 24, 2023
- Permalink
Haven't seen that coming, actually. What a surprising and fun movie, that is made out of all the good stuff that children's films should be made of. It's a stuffed story, with multiple story lines, that in its most parts contain the anxiety of parents and the will to let the children fly out of the nest.
It's a duck tale and it's about all those generic themes you can think about. A little bit of "Ice Age 3" and a sprinkle from other kids' movies and there you got it.
The pond is getting a shirt visit from migrating ducks and those who have never left their steady home get curious and wondering what else is there in life except the good old pond.
The neurotic father duck cannot think about him and his family living the dangers of wild life and they get into the big city and get their fair share of adventures. Its a wonderfully written, directed and performed animated movie for both kids and grown-ups.
It speaks about our natural anxieties as parents and about the will to explore and go in the path each individual carves for himself. No big news or subversive subtext, just fun time with the kids and thus medium we like to have fun with then occasionally.
The cast members are also fun with Supporting roles like Keagen-Michael key, Awkwafina and Danny DeVito. Kumail Nunjiani and Elizabeth Banks are terrific in the main roles and truly a lot of fun and a great and surprising movie for all the family.
It's a duck tale and it's about all those generic themes you can think about. A little bit of "Ice Age 3" and a sprinkle from other kids' movies and there you got it.
The pond is getting a shirt visit from migrating ducks and those who have never left their steady home get curious and wondering what else is there in life except the good old pond.
The neurotic father duck cannot think about him and his family living the dangers of wild life and they get into the big city and get their fair share of adventures. Its a wonderfully written, directed and performed animated movie for both kids and grown-ups.
It speaks about our natural anxieties as parents and about the will to explore and go in the path each individual carves for himself. No big news or subversive subtext, just fun time with the kids and thus medium we like to have fun with then occasionally.
The cast members are also fun with Supporting roles like Keagen-Michael key, Awkwafina and Danny DeVito. Kumail Nunjiani and Elizabeth Banks are terrific in the main roles and truly a lot of fun and a great and surprising movie for all the family.
- BoBo_Goal32
- Feb 27, 2024
- Permalink
If there's one thing I took away from Migration (2023), it's that Illumination has finally matured as an animation studio. Sure, just like there's a Disney/Pixar/DreamWorks "style," Illumination has a look to the characters in their movies (especially the humans) that makes them immediately distinguishable. In Migration, there was less of that distinctive style, but the freedom to match what the movie needed to tell its original story about a family adventure. If this is what taking risks looks like, then I think it was a successful foray into more original fare.
The voice acting was superb, mostly because there were only a few characters whose voices were immediately obvious who they were. I do wonder if director Benjamin Renner's previous work, Ernest & Celestine (2012), helped shape some of the voice acting decisions, because they certainly fit the characters well. The animation also feeling closer to a 2D traditionally animated film while still being completely 3D CGI was a nice touch that set it apart from other animated movies (but not quite as extremely as Into the Spider-Verse (2018) or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) have done).
And while the plot wasn't anything to fly home about, the core lessons it was trying to get across were solid enough for any kids watching to understand what it was trying to say. Even the more childish gags that are common for this kind of film were fairly rare, which felt refreshing considering the studio this film came from. Of course, this also was helped by a pretty good villain that drove most of the movie's later conflict. Kids might be scared at a few points, but my daughter seemed to enjoy it overall.
A cute family adventure from Illumination, I give Migration 3.5 stars out of 5.
The voice acting was superb, mostly because there were only a few characters whose voices were immediately obvious who they were. I do wonder if director Benjamin Renner's previous work, Ernest & Celestine (2012), helped shape some of the voice acting decisions, because they certainly fit the characters well. The animation also feeling closer to a 2D traditionally animated film while still being completely 3D CGI was a nice touch that set it apart from other animated movies (but not quite as extremely as Into the Spider-Verse (2018) or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) have done).
And while the plot wasn't anything to fly home about, the core lessons it was trying to get across were solid enough for any kids watching to understand what it was trying to say. Even the more childish gags that are common for this kind of film were fairly rare, which felt refreshing considering the studio this film came from. Of course, this also was helped by a pretty good villain that drove most of the movie's later conflict. Kids might be scared at a few points, but my daughter seemed to enjoy it overall.
A cute family adventure from Illumination, I give Migration 3.5 stars out of 5.
- Benjamin-M-Weilert
- May 14, 2024
- Permalink
- mjanelle-24974
- Dec 30, 2023
- Permalink
- reeceagland
- Dec 21, 2023
- Permalink
In a forest in the Northeastern America, the Mallard family consisting of Mack (Kumail Nanjiani), his wife Pam (Elizabeth Banks), and their two children Dax (Casper Jennings) and Gwen (Tresi Gazal) live a pleasant but unadventurous life in their pond home mainly due to Mack's anxieties about the outside world. When a flock of migrating ducks stop by and tell Mack's family of their destination of Jamaica, Mack brushes initially brushes off the idea despite his family's objections until talking with his even more risk averse Uncle Dan (Danny DeVito) changes his mind. As the Mallard family begins their migration, they make their way South encountering various misadventures along the way.
Migration is the latest animated feature from Universal based studio Illumination and the first 3D animated film from director Benjamin Renner who had previously garnered acclaim from traditionally animated films such as Ernest & Celestine and The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales. While Migration certainly covers familiar ground when it comes to this kind of story, its familiarity is mad more palatable thanks to some solid visual craft as well as some good performances from the voice actors.
While I'll admit I did approach Migration with a certain level of skepticism as the marketing did feel like it was selling a movie in line with something like Rio or Duck Duck Goose, I was pleasantly surprised by how it avoided common pitfalls associated with this kind of broadly targeted animated format. While the family certainly fall into archetypes with the anxiety ridden father and the mother being more adventurous, the chemistry between Nanjiani and Banks in the roles brings a lot of energy and believability to their dynamic. The two children Dax and Gwen are also voiced by Caspar Jennings and Tresi Gazal also do a good job of capturing a surprisingly more believable brother/sister dynamic with some charming scenes such as when Gwen tags along with Dax or won't stop hugging him until he feels better.
One of the qualities I really appreciated Renner's approach to the material was despite existing in a setting with humans they never talk with the only speech coming from the birds themselves. This helps create a solid sense of identity for the film that really sold it for me especially in regards to the main antagonist a nameless chef who's an amalgam of various celebrity chefs whose character is created almost entirely through pantomime and the animation. Renner also worked to avoid many of the more base and lazy jokes he felt were too prevalent in family films and it really did feel like the humor was more character and situation based. With that said this is a very straightforward "road movie" with more than a few shades of prior films of this ilk and I wouldn't say there's any major risks it takes, but despite maybe playing its narrative a bit too safe it makes for fun diverting viewing.
Migration doesn't reach the heights of the bar director Renner has set for himself, but as a diverting bit of lighthearted escapism it's above average. In a year that hasn't been a slouch where animation has been concerned (Nimona, Across the Spider-Verse) Migration is in good company and is a solid work even if not particularly ambitious.
Migration is the latest animated feature from Universal based studio Illumination and the first 3D animated film from director Benjamin Renner who had previously garnered acclaim from traditionally animated films such as Ernest & Celestine and The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales. While Migration certainly covers familiar ground when it comes to this kind of story, its familiarity is mad more palatable thanks to some solid visual craft as well as some good performances from the voice actors.
While I'll admit I did approach Migration with a certain level of skepticism as the marketing did feel like it was selling a movie in line with something like Rio or Duck Duck Goose, I was pleasantly surprised by how it avoided common pitfalls associated with this kind of broadly targeted animated format. While the family certainly fall into archetypes with the anxiety ridden father and the mother being more adventurous, the chemistry between Nanjiani and Banks in the roles brings a lot of energy and believability to their dynamic. The two children Dax and Gwen are also voiced by Caspar Jennings and Tresi Gazal also do a good job of capturing a surprisingly more believable brother/sister dynamic with some charming scenes such as when Gwen tags along with Dax or won't stop hugging him until he feels better.
One of the qualities I really appreciated Renner's approach to the material was despite existing in a setting with humans they never talk with the only speech coming from the birds themselves. This helps create a solid sense of identity for the film that really sold it for me especially in regards to the main antagonist a nameless chef who's an amalgam of various celebrity chefs whose character is created almost entirely through pantomime and the animation. Renner also worked to avoid many of the more base and lazy jokes he felt were too prevalent in family films and it really did feel like the humor was more character and situation based. With that said this is a very straightforward "road movie" with more than a few shades of prior films of this ilk and I wouldn't say there's any major risks it takes, but despite maybe playing its narrative a bit too safe it makes for fun diverting viewing.
Migration doesn't reach the heights of the bar director Renner has set for himself, but as a diverting bit of lighthearted escapism it's above average. In a year that hasn't been a slouch where animation has been concerned (Nimona, Across the Spider-Verse) Migration is in good company and is a solid work even if not particularly ambitious.
- IonicBreezeMachine
- Jan 26, 2024
- Permalink
Beyond the content in the trailer, there isn't much worth watching. Very (very) young children may enjoy this film but that's about it. Our 10 year old was not entertained but our 6 year old liked it.
In the theater, very few jokes landed with an audience response. The short shown prior to the movie is a more worthwhile watch. This movie is completely forgettable. In a world of sugar cookie shakes, this movie is as vanilla (and formulary) as it gets. It's devoid of any substance or soul, a formulary family vanilla shake, hold the whip and sprinkles. Of the nine family films I've seen in testers this year, it's the one I'd recommend the least.
In the theater, very few jokes landed with an audience response. The short shown prior to the movie is a more worthwhile watch. This movie is completely forgettable. In a world of sugar cookie shakes, this movie is as vanilla (and formulary) as it gets. It's devoid of any substance or soul, a formulary family vanilla shake, hold the whip and sprinkles. Of the nine family films I've seen in testers this year, it's the one I'd recommend the least.
"Migration" is an excellent animated film whose script tells a story with familiar and educational touches, setting an example of dignity towards immigrants, all from the perspective of the ducks. The animation is tremendous, resulting in beautiful visuals, as well as amazing character design. The voice work of the actors is perfect, giving charisma to their characters and highlighting their personalities. The editing work is highly successful and intensifies the drama and comedy when they are required on screen. A production that makes the most of its potential and successfully achieves a story of family unity and dignity.
I thought the movie was Ok, but the themes and some of the action was maybe a little too dark for my 4yo granddaughter. She likes action-y PG movies like Bolt and Monsters Inc., but she found this one a bit too intense.
She was laughing at many parts, but got a bit anxious and asked to leave about an hour in. I would not consider this a scary movie, but it does have danger and chases that are maybe too much for sensitive littles.
For adults, there are relatable parent-child dynamics, and some jokes and details only grown ups would get.
I would recommend for slightly older kids (maybe 6? 7?)
She was laughing at many parts, but got a bit anxious and asked to leave about an hour in. I would not consider this a scary movie, but it does have danger and chases that are maybe too much for sensitive littles.
For adults, there are relatable parent-child dynamics, and some jokes and details only grown ups would get.
I would recommend for slightly older kids (maybe 6? 7?)
- Ms_chelle1975
- Feb 26, 2024
- Permalink
I haven't been a fan of Illumination Entertainment movies as the only movies I have enjoyed from them were "Despicable Me" and "Sing 2". But many of their works really are just for kids and most of their style and writing is bland and has gotten on my nerves. Migration is new and different from their other works but as a whole, it was average at best.
Throughout, many of the animation colors, structures, and models are pretty good as Illumination does a really good work on their animation designs. Including the models, the movements and the features. There are some solid sound designs as well. The writing from Mike White, who is known for his writing works on School of Rock, Year of the Dog, Brad's Status and Nacho Libre, isn't really special and while there are some ideas that I thought were pretty cool, it felt too generic and didn't feel as charming as it thinks which made it pretty boring. People say that it's trying to be original but it almost feels like a more unspecial version of "Rio". The director Benjamin Renner has created "Ernest & Celestine" and "The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales..." which are really great animated stories but unlike his previous works, Renner's direction and charm feels lacking and lost.
The voice performances are solid as Kumail Nanjiani and Elizabeth Banks provide some solid emotions and vocal performances. The child voice performances honestly kind of got on my nerves. Most of the characters were typical and not really interesting, the humor is a bit stale and the dialogue is a mix of having some clever and some really awful lines. It's definitely for the younger audiences as my siblings did enjoy it which I am glad about. I do appreciate Illumination Entertainment making something original then their annoying works of Despicable Me and Minions stuff but the generic style doesn't do it for me.
Overall, it's good for the children and the average internet user who loves animation but I feel like I should just stop watching movies from Illumination Entertainment at this point.
Throughout, many of the animation colors, structures, and models are pretty good as Illumination does a really good work on their animation designs. Including the models, the movements and the features. There are some solid sound designs as well. The writing from Mike White, who is known for his writing works on School of Rock, Year of the Dog, Brad's Status and Nacho Libre, isn't really special and while there are some ideas that I thought were pretty cool, it felt too generic and didn't feel as charming as it thinks which made it pretty boring. People say that it's trying to be original but it almost feels like a more unspecial version of "Rio". The director Benjamin Renner has created "Ernest & Celestine" and "The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales..." which are really great animated stories but unlike his previous works, Renner's direction and charm feels lacking and lost.
The voice performances are solid as Kumail Nanjiani and Elizabeth Banks provide some solid emotions and vocal performances. The child voice performances honestly kind of got on my nerves. Most of the characters were typical and not really interesting, the humor is a bit stale and the dialogue is a mix of having some clever and some really awful lines. It's definitely for the younger audiences as my siblings did enjoy it which I am glad about. I do appreciate Illumination Entertainment making something original then their annoying works of Despicable Me and Minions stuff but the generic style doesn't do it for me.
Overall, it's good for the children and the average internet user who loves animation but I feel like I should just stop watching movies from Illumination Entertainment at this point.
- chenp-54708
- Dec 15, 2023
- Permalink
I do like the animation studio Illumination's movies, and though I was not sure what to expect from this movie, I still was thinking it was going to be a normal family animated movie that has very good animation and good voice cast; after watching, I was right about what I thought, but this movie was enjoyable and pretty entertaining to watch. Illumination's animated movie Migration (2023) is an enjoyable family movie with pretty animation, a good voice cast, quite a few funny moments, and a simple premise following ducks migrating; this not one of Illumination's best movies, but it was at good enough to watch and have a suitable time watching it.
The movie has a good voice cast involving Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Danny DeVito, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key, who are all good in the movie and have funny scenes in the movie; I like the simple idea of the duck dad named Mack being pushed out of his comfort zone and migrating so him and his family are not stuck in one place, so they learn about places they have never been to. I did think the change from the dad going wanting to stay at the pond to him wanting to go out could have been gradually built up a bit instead of being quickly decided, but that is fine, and it is mostly because the more adventurous mom wanted him to go and pushed him to. Also, though the kids could get a little annoying to watch, they do gradually get less annoying, and they start being helpful as the movie goes on in certain situations they get into.
There is a villain in the movie that is just a chef who is trying to get the ducks, but he is introduced in halfway through the movie and continues to follow the ducks from there on; other than the antagonist, the movie did have some funny moments and lines of dialogue, with an occasional moment I was not expecting. The animation of the movie was very pretty to look at with the various locations they go to having nice details and is nice to look at, especially when they are at their pond or in certain forest areas; the ducks themselves have good detail in the feathers they have and the way the move around is fast and fun to watch when they are migrating from location to location.
The movie Migration (2023) is not Illumination's best movie, but it is an enjoyable and entertaining family movie, so kids will like this movie; the movie had a good voice cast, pretty animation, funny moments, and the simple premise of ducks migrating is done well enough to make the movie good. This movie will be entertaining for those who have kids and for those who do not, and if you like Illumination's animated movies, then this is not bad of one to check out; not bad but not perfect, just a simple and enjoyable family animated movie.
The movie has a good voice cast involving Kumail Nanjiani, Elizabeth Banks, Danny DeVito, Awkwafina, and Keegan-Michael Key, who are all good in the movie and have funny scenes in the movie; I like the simple idea of the duck dad named Mack being pushed out of his comfort zone and migrating so him and his family are not stuck in one place, so they learn about places they have never been to. I did think the change from the dad going wanting to stay at the pond to him wanting to go out could have been gradually built up a bit instead of being quickly decided, but that is fine, and it is mostly because the more adventurous mom wanted him to go and pushed him to. Also, though the kids could get a little annoying to watch, they do gradually get less annoying, and they start being helpful as the movie goes on in certain situations they get into.
There is a villain in the movie that is just a chef who is trying to get the ducks, but he is introduced in halfway through the movie and continues to follow the ducks from there on; other than the antagonist, the movie did have some funny moments and lines of dialogue, with an occasional moment I was not expecting. The animation of the movie was very pretty to look at with the various locations they go to having nice details and is nice to look at, especially when they are at their pond or in certain forest areas; the ducks themselves have good detail in the feathers they have and the way the move around is fast and fun to watch when they are migrating from location to location.
The movie Migration (2023) is not Illumination's best movie, but it is an enjoyable and entertaining family movie, so kids will like this movie; the movie had a good voice cast, pretty animation, funny moments, and the simple premise of ducks migrating is done well enough to make the movie good. This movie will be entertaining for those who have kids and for those who do not, and if you like Illumination's animated movies, then this is not bad of one to check out; not bad but not perfect, just a simple and enjoyable family animated movie.
- MB-reviewer185
- Jan 22, 2024
- Permalink
"Migration" is a visual feast, captivating audiences with its stunning animation and vibrant color palette. Set against the backdrop of a migratory journey, the film seamlessly blends artistry with storytelling, immersing viewers in a world teeming with life and wonder. From the intricate details of each character to the sweeping landscapes they traverse, every frame is a testament to the dedication of the animation team.
But it's not just the visuals that shine in "Migration." The narrative unfolds with heart and depth, exploring themes of resilience, friendship, and the enduring spirit of adventure. As the characters embark on their journey, facing challenges and forging bonds along the way, audiences are drawn into a compelling tale that resonates on multiple levels.
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to appeal to audiences of all ages. While younger viewers will be enchanted by the colorful characters and lively antics, older viewers will appreciate the film's nuanced storytelling and rich thematic elements.
Overall, "Migration" is a triumph of animation, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience that will linger in the hearts and minds of audiences long after the credits roll. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of the animated medium.
But it's not just the visuals that shine in "Migration." The narrative unfolds with heart and depth, exploring themes of resilience, friendship, and the enduring spirit of adventure. As the characters embark on their journey, facing challenges and forging bonds along the way, audiences are drawn into a compelling tale that resonates on multiple levels.
One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its ability to appeal to audiences of all ages. While younger viewers will be enchanted by the colorful characters and lively antics, older viewers will appreciate the film's nuanced storytelling and rich thematic elements.
Overall, "Migration" is a triumph of animation, delivering a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience that will linger in the hearts and minds of audiences long after the credits roll. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of the animated medium.
- breadcat-64949
- May 27, 2024
- Permalink