Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022) User Reviews

Well-directed and charming but narratively slight

[benjaminskylerhill · 6/10 · 7 October 2022]

Well, color me surprised. I actually had a pretty good time with this lightweight musical romp.

This is a thoroughly well-directed movie, which was shocking to me. There is quite a bit of thoughtful camera placement that visually emphasises how the characters are feeling about the events that unfold around them.

Musical numbers are a surprisingly difficult thing to get right, and I thought this movie managed to pull off some pretty spectacular ones. There is a great deal of variety to the visual presentation of each musical sequence, with characters and camera moving around with some fun choreography.

I could tell that these filmmakers were really trying to make this movie as good as it could be. Their effort shows and mostly pays off.

As for plot, it's very narratively slight; it's full of contrivances and forced conflicts that never once felt substantial or surprising or meaningful. Because of this, I'll probably be forgetting about this movie very quickly.

There's also a sequence in which a montage is shown made up of scenes from earlier in the movie, and I thought it was hilariously clumsy in how it was put together.

But still, I thought this was an unabashedly sweet, charming, and pleasantly competent little musical adventure. It'll be good for the family.

A bit flat but charming

[srdikano · 5/10 · 20 October 2022]

Lyle is an absolutely adorable character. And Javier Bardem and Constance Wu deliver excellent performances. All in all, it was a moderately enjoyable affair.

What kept Lyle from reaching its potential were the story, the pacing and the songs. The story lacks an antagonist, a threat, some kind of objective that looms large. And that absence is felt, with multiple moments begging the question "wonderful characters, but what is this all about ultimately?".

The pacing was a little off, with really exciting moments followed by long, trudging luls. While everyone was so very incredibly charming, the movie did feel boring at times.

Finally, the missed opportunity is the songs. They're simply not iconic. I still remember songs from Frozen, Moana, Encanto and others, but I'm confident that I won't remember any of the tunes from Lyle.

This may not read like a particularly flattering review and that's not my intention. I though Lyle was nice, but not particularly so. I might just be spoiled by what seems like so many other exceptionally good animation films these past few years.

An interesting movie that was unexpected

[Blashma · 7/10 · 10 November 2022]

The great feeling that comes from a children's movie. It's quite interesting that Javier Bardem plays such a funny and less serious character, I hope he gets more roles like this in the future, he also sings pretty well. Especially Shawn Mendes, whose voice suits Lyle so well that I can't even imagine.

Personally, I enjoy this movie a lot compared to other recent Hollywood movies. The film composes songs that are easy to listen to and the humorous situations are subtly included. Hope the movie gets the attention it deserves A round of applause to the cast and crew for making such a good movie adaptation.

Just plain sweet

[gandlbest · 27 November 2022]

A feel good movie. Not just for kids. Plus a lesson about acceptance, worth, and not having to fit in. Also about restorative joy. Beautiful songs and of course Shawn Mendes ' amazing voice. The family aspect was beautiful too. And the villians were not that villianous, showing forgiveness and repentance. Even the implausible became palatable, literally. I liked the cinematography as well. They didn't skimp on anything. Even the cat was well played. CGI but it needed to be (like Call of the Wild CGI). If you want to laugh and cheer on and rediscover hope, and have a few twists and turns along the way, I highly recommend Lyle. Now, I want to read the book series with my family.

It's mainly for kids, but was still good fun

[derekrice-00312 · 7/10 · 8 October 2022]

I'm in my mid-20s and I like Shawn Mendes' voice as Lyle. Having him in the film made it good to watch, but I thought it's plot could have been better. Some of the characters are not emphasized as much as I thought they would be and some of the music is a bit basic. Also, the conflict in the movie was not as climactic as I thought it was going to be in my opinion. Nevertheless, I do not think that watching the film was a total waste of time or money. It's important to keep in mind that this is a musical for kids and therefore the plot is going to be somewhat basic. If you're a Shawn Mendes fan and/or a parent who wants to take his/her kid to see a movie, it's worth a watch.

That was actually good.

[subxerogravity · 7/10 · 7 October 2022]

All I can say is that I like it. I was expecting it to be dull going in, but I found myself entertained. It does not hurt that Lyle Lyle the Crocodile was a childhood favorite of mine (Well...favorite might be too much. I'm giving a lot of credit to it simply because it's a book I actually read).

I can see why Javier Bardem did it. He got to change it up a little bit and show us a humorous side we rarely get to see in the type of movies he's best known for.

As a musical it sucks, but I'm bias cause that's not my thing but this did not stop me from liking it, overall.

Definitely glad I took the time to see it.

Singing Crocodile

[cahidi · 7/10 · 30 November 2022]

It's kinda hard to believe that something who can sing, can't talk, when it can clearly understand the language. But seeing how it's based on a children's book, I won't make a fuss about it. Especially when the story is exceptional and heartwarming. When I read the synopsis, I was intrigued. So, I decided to watch it. And I don't regret it at all. As a musical, it has quite a few good songs. And Shawn Mendes is obviously the right choice to play Lyle. And even though I really wish Lyle can talk, cause it can make the comedy part even better, but I can guarantee that you won't regret watching this movie. Especially with your family.

Lyle, Lyle, Not My Style

[NoodleNathan · 4/10 · 25 April 2023]

The sweet children's book, complete with a loveable crocodile and a playful story has been brought to the big screen. Unfortunately, I felt as though very few of these positive characteristics were preserved in this adaptation. The story failed to interest me, the characters failed to surprise me, and even the once-cute crocodile failed to charm me. This movie may work for some audiences, but I unfortunately, had trouble finding a single reason to invest in this movie.

As the movie Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile began, I immediately found myself plunged into the ridiculous story. A failing magician living in New York, played by Javier Bardem, stumbles upon a singing crocodile and for a second, believes this creature will be his saving grace. Unfortunately for him, Lyle the crocodile fails to overcome his nerves when performing in front of an audience. Lyle was now of no use to the magician, and was left behind, only to be discovered by a boy that had just moved to the big city with his parents. The boy is quick to become friends with the beast, but as the two of them go on wacky adventures together, the boy realizes he won't be able to hide this singing crocodile from the world for long.

The premise sounds fun, and in some ways, it is. Unfortunately, due to flat characters, dull writing, and strange crocodile animations, I found myself very disappointed. Javier Bardem plays the magician, and I consider it a waste that the most skillful actor in the film played the flattest character of them all. The boy and his parents are slightly more interesting, but still gave me few characteristics with which to connect. Finally, Lyle is awkward, and not in an endearing way. His mannerisms and behaviors fell short of charming nine times out of ten.

The production quality and the music performed by the talented Shawn Mendes are decent. But unfortunately, these small triumphs were somewhat dwarfed by larger issues in this movie. Likely by no fault of the visual effects team, poor effects are nothing short of distracting, further removing me from the world that this movie tries to develop.

In summary, Lyle, Lyle Crocodile is built upon playful source material, but seems unable to deliver. It wasn't a horrible experience, but I found myself disappointed that this movie seemed incredibly flat for a movie that should rely heavily on emotion. Next time I sit down to watch a movie from this genre, I hope to see a little more boldness in the writing and a little more heart in the characters. If you're looking for a fun, family film with loveable animal character, I will point you to dozens of classics that are decades old before recommending Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.

Fantastic sweet Crocodile Story!!!

[monberger · 10/10 · 19 October 2022]

What a sweet and tender movie, great for children and the whole family. There was no profanity and mention of drugs or alcohol; very clean!!! Lyle was sweet and tender despite not talking except when singing with the voice of Shawn Mendes. Lyle's expressions were charming and expressive (grate animation). Javier Bardem was great, as always. Fun and touching musical numbers; please don't forget to take tissues with you as it has moments that will make you tear up a bit. Please, go to the theater and see it on the big screen, take your children they will love it as much as I did! I would love to see it again.

Just have some fun!

[doppleganger19692 · 7/10 · 12 October 2022]

Sure it's an offbeat premise and sure the plot lines are predictable, but sometimes you just want something entertaining to help forget the woes of the world. While it is certainly aimed at a younger audience, this 64-year old found the movie to be entertaining and very enjoyable - not to mention memorable (the music will live in your head for a while much like "The Greatest Showman" - same music writing team). As for the rest of our "review crew", our 7-year old and his class buddy loved it, our 12-year old liked it very much, while our 15-year old (who also loved "The Greatest Showman") wants to buy the soundtrack and the movie when it is released on DVD (yes, I firmly believe in physical purchases and not the ethereal streaming). My bride liked it too, so a solid "thumbs up" from us!

Horrible

[leoisprivate · 1/10 · 13 October 2022]

Genuinely the worst experience I've had in my life, this film is a dark void in my life, I have no clue how on earth this film got past the idea phase. This is the most horrible thing that has happened to me in my life, bar the death of family members. My life is far worse after seeing this film.

Every aspect of this film is sub-par to unwatchable, bland characters, horrible musical scenes, uninspired uninteresting plot and possibly the unfunniest jokes in any high budget movie I've ever seen. If a device existed that could wipe ALL of my memories, I would use it just to forget this disgusting movie.

This Crocodile Rocks In Cuteness, Music, and Family Fun

[rgkarim · 8/10 · 7 October 2022]

Likes:

Cute: If you have seen the trailers, you want be surprised that this movie is adorable on so many levels. Lyle's journey starts out very charming, the cute little baby croc being like a child version of the Geico Gecko, and then quickly blooming into that tragic and loveable hero. The movie feels much like a kids' book come to life and both live and animate characters being these loveable representations of family values. The antics are fun, the lighthearted nature of the movie just puts a loveable quality to it, and the positivity takes away just about every scary element of the world. All in all it's fun.

Decent Pace For First Part of the Film: The pacing of the film works so well for me at the start. It's not a prolonged banter and trek through the muck of how rough life can be. No, Lyle gets right into the theatrics, having fun and getting the good vibes started as the animate crocodile and his new friend start their journey to a new life. Sure it takes some of the sting and character development out, but in doing so, it respects the time and fun to give you and your kids the wow factor they want.

The Acting: It's not bad at all for me in this film. Lyle's cast is impressive, and though they are in a children film, the performances aren't pulled like some other younger films do. Constance Wu is the best for me in this film, a bit kid focused, but then recovering to be the same fiery spirit that the woman always brings, balanced with the care she shows too. A toned down version of Crazy Rich Asians to give you an example. Then comes Javier Bardem, the man is fun and certainly in a place I have not seen, but gives the role enthusiasm, splendor, and more details despite not being his usual element. Scoot McNairy is fine as Mr. Primm, and once the movie actually starts picking things up, the character gets better than when he first starts, more interesting and dynamic when he starts integrating with the rest of the family. Special shout out to Winslow Fegley because the star of the show with Lyle deserves recognition for the stellar performance he put on as the kid struggling to find friends and seek out kindness. The chemistry around the team is very good, and they form that odd family they were going for in this film.

The Humor: Certainly geared to a much younger audience, Lyle is golden for the fun and lighthearted jokes that I think you could expect this movie to have. I chuckled a lot at the timing of many jokes, especially involving the cat, as they worked with the real life cast. Sure, this is going to be much more tuned to the 4-11 year old range if I'm honest, but the humor is very fitting for the film without being so juvenile that adults will be bored to death. That's a plus in my book.

The Heart and Soul Of the Movie: Beneath all the fun though is the heart and soul of what the movie wants. Lyle's books may be a tribute to Nick Jr. Like tales, but the movie was adapted to be something more and it really worked for me in the grand scheme of things. Lyle's movie has about three big lessons to take away from in my book, but they all work organically, and are presented well for much of the film. There is character development with inspirational shots and moments, and they don't go too preachy for much of the film given what they could have done instead. As the film continues to expand further, and the plot progresses, the film had my heart as the final numbers happened. I found some relevance which helps, but overall the movie has a lot of soul and quality that I absolutely love in my films.

The Musical Numbers: By far, the biggest bang of the movie are the song and dance numbers. Like a kid version of the Greatest Showman, Lyle has props for the song department. Covers are fun and tuned to the scene, giving Mendes his chance to really make his move on some classic songs that are fun. However, the original numbers and songs, though repetitive, really have that fire I like and give you the spirit of the show business, without the circus as a medium. They were creative with the numbers, the energy exciting and fun, with some creativity to the stage they performed in. I see many a child enjoying this, and theater loving child at heart enjoying it even more. Mendes carries a lot of weight on his shoulder, and the pop nature of the movie really drives the bus to the magical art of the theater. I think this will be a big winner for the movie and certainly worth a trip to theater.

DISLIKES:

The Plot has Holes: One of my biggest things I did not like, was the gaping holes and shortcuts of the movie. Lyles journey has a lot of heart, and cuteness, but the movie takes major leaps in the timeline with the story which was glaringly obvious for me. I cringed at how fast things progressed, and how so many other character arcs were sort of smoothed over to fit another song into the mix. Don't get me wrong, your kids won't care and the movie is still fun, but there was more that could have been done to make the story much more integrated and natural to make the full tale come to life.

Misuse of Characters: There are two or three characters in the film who had props to be another part of the story. Perhaps it's going to be in a sequel, but these characters are the story arcs that feel very misused and skipped on when it came to the tale. The African American girl in particularly held a lot of props, but she was directed towards some key moments that left me feeling cheated of another fun element and interactions. Again, when you see the big animate crocodile and the fun he is having, most are not going to care, but as a reviewer there was much more for the film to give if they had just taken time and maybe one less reprise of the first song.

The Ending Is a Bit Rushed: A lot of things happen in the last twenty-five minutes of the film, and though you get plenty of details for the experience, I can't say that the movie accomplished the best conclusion to the tale. Lyle's journey needed a little more organization, a little more flair and planning, a little more edge in the kid fashion, and of course more time. So many things felt too convenient and jammed in, that the last ten minutes or so felt like an afterthought that put a nice bow on the movie. Will it accomplish the task at hand? Sure, it almost always does and paves the way for something more to come. However, the movie needs a bit more polish to reach the full potential for the ending.

The Animation At Times: Again, the studio can do a lot more than I can with their talent and resources, and I really did find the animation adorable and moving with ease. However, the movie is pulling some punches compared to other feats of CGI technology and does not quite look as real as some might want it to. The cat named Loretta is a prime example of this, looking a tad too CGI, and Lyle at times gets a bit too cartoony given again what other films have done. The worst is when other crocodiles show up. They are consistent, but you tend to notice the limitations when they are trying to make the other animals have a more realistic touch. It's nitpicky I know, and truth be told, the style holds a bit of the spirt and fun of the movie with it, but that doesn't meant eh animation is not something that can get touched up on.

The VERDICT:

To be honest, I had a lot of fun with the movie and found the crocodile's story to be one fo the most touching films of the year. Lyle and his crew will really drive into the hearts of the young and young at heart, and give you a cute adventure that feels out of a picture book. With some great relevance to me, the movie touches some great life lessons in a deep manner, and tends to shy away from the in your face moments, which is a plus for me. And of course the songs are fantastic in bringing life to the screen and really providing the break from reality this film is meant to do. True, the story needs work, the planning and time constraints really feeling present to me with several character and story arcs that were frustrating to witness. And ti's true that the movie needed some more timing components when it came to the ending. But I feel this movie is a great night out at the theater, especially for a family fun night, or at least a view at home. With this, my scores for Lyle's adventure are:

Animation/Adventure/Comedy: 8.0 Movie Overall: 7.0.

Terrible, boring, flat

[joana_dc_santos · 2/10 · 29 December 2022]

How this movie has a 6-start rating is beyond me. Incredibly boring and flat, and even the songs are mediocre at best. You cannot justify this basic, boring movie as "it's for the kids". Even for kids, this movie comes across dumb and empty of any lessons or deeper meaning.

I gave it a 2 out of 10 only because of the amazing Javier Bardem, who probably owed someone a big BIG favor and had to do this movie. I rarely add comments to my ratings, but I'm here to warn you: don't waste your time.

If you still do watch it, expect your soul to leave your body about 10 minutes in, and only come back when you turn it off.

"Let's See What You Got."

[TxMike · 24 January 2023]

The pivotal character is a 50-ish entertainer-magician (Javier Bardem) who keeps trying to make it but isn't quite talented enough. As the movie begins we see him yet again trying to get on the TV show competition named "Let's See What You Got." With no success. However as he goes to the curio shop to find something truly unique he hears a soft, pretty singing voice. Digging through the clutter he discovers this small crocodile, barely larger than a mature lizard, happily singing away. He buys him and names him Lyle.

The movie unfolds as a story of this man and the crocodile that grows and grows into a full-size croc. Lyle can't speak but understands humans, and can sing appropriate songs at times in reply. The goal is to make a lot of money with their song and dance routine. However the man doesn't count on one thing, Lyle suffers from stage fright in front of a crowded theater. The middle part of the story is Lyle ending up with a new family in the New York duplex, and the new family dynamic that results from all that.

My wife and I watched it at home, on DVD from our public library. In truth we enjoyed it a bit more than we expected to.

Good movie.

Yeah know what, I watched the whole thing

[howls11 · 6/10 · 7 February 2023]

It's oddly good.... in a weird way? Given the concept anyways. Just turn your brain fully off and enjoy the ride. I started watching it as a joke and found myself loving the quirky main characters almost instantly. Plus the music is pretty decent I won't lie. There is subtext there and it is definitely telling a story if you look deeper into it, you just have to ask yourself how deep you WANT to look into a movie like this. I think its a good film to watch, even as an adult, if you just fully want to forget about the world for a little under two hours. It's also quite funny to hear Shawn Mendez coming out of a Croc... what a movie.

Mixed bag

[chris_rowe-881-168820 · 7/10 · 9 October 2022]

It felt like it took a while to get going, I have to admit I don't know what I think about the casting, I didn't think the magician had a particularly good voice, then as for the croc, I didn't love his voice, like JLM who does so many perfectly I felt that mendes's voice was a bit whiny in places.

It was a peculiar decision to have him as a mute, why not sing some dialogue to just make him more endearing? As with it being a croc it didn't instantly have the warm aww feeling you get with most characters.

The acting was fine, cheesy family fun, nothing was bad, but equally nothing was particularly memorable, I don't think it has much of a rewatch value and the songs sadly weren't particularly memorable or impressive. I mean from showman to vivo I do love animated song music for feel good playlists but none here really caught my ear.

It's a decent fun watch. It's a good movie, not all will be spectacular but it's definitely one kids will love, I'm unsure it has sequel potential but I guess the owner could be a baddy and take him on your etc.

Doesn't seem particularly popular sadly, guy at the cinema says it's one of the worst supported kids film this year, even ones like the excellent Ron's gone wrong was bringing in more people.

My kids loved it

[staybeautiful-72706 · 7/10 · 18 October 2022]

My kids loved the movie and are still singing the songs over a week later. Is it the best movie ever? No. Was the story super strong? Nope lol. But again, my kids loved it, and there wasn't anything I feel like they needed to be shielded from in the film. I do kind of wish Lyle had learned to talk by the end of the film though. Having him only singing and it basically just being Shawn Mendes's voice was weird. I didn't necessarily think the voice fit the crocodile well. But again, I'll deal with all those little things to have a normal film my kids can enjoy without me worrying about what they're watching.

Really Enjoyed It

[peanutclairebailey · 8/10 · 9 October 2022]

It's a kid's movie and my adult brain doesn't allow me to reason with why there is a talking crocodile living with people in a house (do I lack imagination). Having said that, I enjoyed it. My child (aged 5) enjoyed it. It was pleasant, heartwarming. I would recommend going to see it. Don't be fooled by The Greatest Showman writers producing the songs, it's unfortunately not a patch on that soundtrack.

I thought the actors all did really well. I don't think Mendes's voice matched the crocodile though. I'm not sure why. He's a great singer though and nice to listen to.

A few plot holes but with a singing crocodile there's bound to be.

Enjoyable and charming

[veronicadebroussail · 7/10 · 29 January 2023]

I recently watched "Lyle Lyle Crocodile" with my two daughters, ages 6 and 8, and we all enjoyed it. The story is about a young crocodile named Lyle who is adopted by a human family and learns to live in the city. The girls found Lyle to be a lovable and relatable character and they loved all of his adventures. The animation is charming and the way it works with the live action is completely believable. The film also has a great message about acceptance and belonging. My daughters laughed throughout the film and they were delighted by the ending. It is a heartwarming and a fun movie for the whole family to enjoy together.

Javier, What Happened?

[arfdawg-1 · 2/10 · 27 November 2022]

Javier Bardem is a great actor.

Not a good actor, a GREAT actor.

Why he agreed to be in this movie is beyond me. Not sure if he did his own singing so maybe he wanted to show off a different set of skills.

I dunno.

But if you are an adult, you are not going to like this movie. It's not like other CGI movies taht are marketed to kids but parents can sit through.

It's excruciating to watch. Not that the movie looks bad. It's obvious a bunch of money was spent on the production.

But the plot disposition is horrible. And the songs are mediocre at best. In addition, on an early number the vocals are flat and out of tune.

Ykes.

A cute, sweet, gorgeous & entertaining movie / Javier is absolutely brilliant!

[antoniatejedabarros · 10/10 · 1 November 2022]

Yesterday we went to the cinema to see Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile here in Spain (in original language, English, of course) and we had a great amazing magical time. Everybody (children and adults) clapped at the end. Javier Bardem is absolutely stunning, brilliant and funny as Hector P. Valenti. The special effects are great and the cinematography is gorgeous. Lyle & Loretta are super cute, the music is fantastic, and the movie is absolutely sweet. No guns, scary monsters, horrific cruel people or super fast flashes needed, only a story about friendship, love and family with real human beings (not superheroes) -and with a lovely singing crocodile that children & parents will adore. 10/10.

My middle name is Lyle so I had to see this it was pretty good

[UniqueParticle · 7/10 · 15 October 2022]

I didn't realize the bulk of it is a musical which I really am not a fan of but I really liked this for what it is. Quite heartwarming, adorable, full of delightfulness, and great for the family! I love Prim family and Lyle was spot on throughout. The directors are great for feel good movies I really like one of their other films Office Christmas Party, nice to see something more innocent! Javier Bardem is basically David Copperfield character that's kind of perfect joke he's solid though. All the bonding with Lyle is the best aspects, for someone that doesn't like singing in movies this is one of the best ones that I would recommend.

Cute film. Worth a watch.

[cheapbird-58418 · 7/10 · 27 October 2022]

Was it the best film ever? No. However, the actors are spot on for the roles. It's fairly predictable- but what isn't these days! Can't knock the film for that.

Was it cute? Yes. Just adorable.

Was it watchable? Yes. Very much so. Shawn Mendes's voice is just wonderful. The animated crocodile is super cute and you forget he is not real.

Did my kids love it? Yes. Especially my 6 year old. He thought it was amazing. Wanted to see it again the second we left the cinema.

Would I watch it again? I wouldn't go out of my way to, but if it's on, yes! My kids will definitely be re watching it.

Worth a watch for sure 👍🏼

Delightful Family Film

[maestrolevine · 7/10 · 23 November 2022]

I chaperoned a class of 2nd graders to this film and had no idea what to expect. I was immediately pleasantly surprised to see Javier Bardem using all his charisma in playing a down-and-out entertainer who discovers the singing crocodile, whose smooth voice is perfectly provided by Shawn Mendes. As Lyle eventually becomes part of a new family, he uses his keen sense of empathy and thoroughly impressive singing skills to help the struggling family rediscover their confidence and their joy for life.

The blended family of the film is great representation for healthy step-parent relationships. Constance Wu is adorable and up-and-comer Winslow Fegley is a charming young actor.

As absurd as the premise may be, this is a film parents certainly shouldn't mind sitting through. While it is not full of many of the higher-level references found in the truly great family films, nor is it filled with the sort of cheap gross-out humor that is all too common in much of the child-focused drivel. The pacing seems at time a bit rushed, but at 106 minutes, it's already pushing at the attention spans of younger viewers. The song and dance numbers are thoroughly entertaining and the cinematography paints a lovely version of New York City. While not destined to be an all-time classic, this film is quite enjoyable and you won't mind if your kids watch it on repeat.