Disney did it. They successfully made a live action adaptation of the Jungle Book. If low expectations cloud your mind before walking into this prepare to be impressed.
Where the studio succeeds in making this film is when they adapted the film instead of making it new and edgy. It’s the retelling of a Disney classic with gorgeous CGI and an amazing cast. They did the same with Cinderella a few years back and the result was a solid movie. The Jungle Book is solid but gives so much more.
When you watch the film there’s a serious tone that emotionally connects you to Mowgli and his struggles. You care for the jungle, respect its laws, and understand all too well the dangers of the Red Flower.
It’s serious when it needs to be, comedic at appropriate times, and heartfelt in all the right places. The all-star voice cast is amazing and does the film a great justice. Bill Murray, Ben Kingsley, and Idris Elba all stand out delivering unforgettable performances that will make you laugh, attempt to make you cry, and leave you terrified.
The only time the film suffers is when the young actor Neel Sethi doesn’t fully deliver as Mowgli, and an untimely musical number from Christopher Walken as King Louie. Sethi does an alright job in the role, but you can tell the kid is still working on his chops. King Louie’s song is out of place, and doesn’t fit with the film as much as the “Bear Necessities†did.
The movie pays homage to its predecessor and pays its respects to the Disney films of old. You feel like you’re submersed in a world filled with magic, love, and unity.
Remember it doesn’t matter if you’re not a wolf, and it doesn’t matter that you don’t fit in. Just don’t give up, try you’re best, and remember that you’re special… because you’re a Mowgli (you).
