Going into this movie, I really don't expect much out of it. Not that I'd think it would suck, I just had few expectations for it. I mean, it's a little kids' flick spawned from a juggernaut of a franchise, I really don't think they would put much effort into it considering how much revenue it'll generate anyway.
However, coming out of it, I was pleasantly surprised by how charming, enjoyable and just overall good it was. Shocking, I know.
Even though I've only watched a handful of episodes just to get a good idea of the overall premise, world and characters, I can tell that this movie was made as not just a special treat for the fans but something special that everybody can enjoy.
Coming from a 26 year old guy who still lives with his parents, I found myself enjoying the story and the serious themes it tackles even for a movie intended for this kind of audience, the characters and the arcs they go through and even the neat visuals which are an appropriate upgrade from TV quality.
This is one of the biggest surprises of 2021 so far. It ain't Shakespeare but it doesn't have to be. It's solid fun for the whole family and a genuinely investing experience.
MY SCORE: 4 1/2 out of 5.