Peter (or as his sister and mother call him, Petie) has just moved into a new home with his mum and sister but is forced to share a room with his little sister. Peter believes his little sister has a wild yet annoying imagination. We also learn that Peter has big dreams of one day becoming an astronaut, just like his father, who sadly died during a mission while travelling to the moon. On the flip side, we discover a group of dune bugs who live outside Peter’s house. These bugs have had a tragic past regarding their loved ones and their home, which was destroyed. They have held on to a prophecy of a good human who will make everything better for them. The only catch is that this chosen person the prophecy speaks of will be required to travel to the moon!
When Peter’s sister discovers the bugs outside and receives word of the mission tasked for her and Peter, she tells him everything, but Peter once again thinks she is making up silly stories and brushes her off. While Peter returns to sleep, his little sister accepts the mission to travel to the moon independently. Soon, Peter discovers his little sister is missing, and he begins a rescue mission of his own as he, too, travels to the moon looking for his lost little sister.
Moonbound is certainly best classed as a fantasy adventure film and includes many fairy tale elements from start to finish. For those unaware, Moonbound is based on a popular children’s book from Germany. The animation on-screen is genuinely delightful and, again, feels like it came from a children’s book—the colour is always bright, clear, and rather pleasing. Along with the animation, there is a high level of creativity and imagination, which was entertaining to see as a family film.
The plot, like the animation, is simple but pleasing. Peter and his little sister are likeable characters. It is not long until Peter understands that he can not only save his sister but also fulfil something his father always dreamed of. Along the way, Peter meets several fun and wacky characters who assist him with his journey. The humour on screen is what can be expected given that it is a family film and is perfect for a young audience. Slapstick or silly jokes that include shooting stars needing to go to the toilet are just some examples that again show the film’s creativity and attempt at brainless fun for all ages. While the jokes never made me laugh out loud, I am confident many family audiences would find the story and humour a fun time all around.
Overall, this is a well-animated family film with many fun elements relating to both creativity and a world of fantasy. The plot is delightful, taking its family audiences on a light-hearted, fun, and brainless journey to the moon. It is undoubtedly an animation that delivers new fantasy elements that warrant a fun time on the big screen. This is one family film that honestly exceeded my expectations.
5.8/10
13th June 2021
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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