“Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken” takes audiences on a thrilling and charming adventure, mixing prom drama with sea battles to create an entertaining Dreamworks film. With a unique twist on the typical coming-of-age story, the movie introduces us to Ruby, a teenage girl who discovers a remarkable secret that changes her life forever. In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, characters, and overall impact, exploring how it manages to blend fantasy with a relatable message of self-discovery.
A Glimpse into Ruby Gillman’s World
Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor) lives a seemingly ordinary life on the coast, but there’s one rule she must follow at her mother’s (Toni Collette) insistence – avoid the sea at all costs. As her prom night approaches, Ruby’s excitement is tinged with disappointment, knowing that the event will be held on a boat. Her longing to attend with her crush clashes with her mother’s stern warnings, and the reason behind her mother’s caution remains a mystery.
Discovering the Extraordinary
Everything changes when Ruby’s curiosity gets the better of her, and she ventures into the water. To her astonishment, she transforms into a colossal kraken, a mythical sea creature with tentacles and immense power. The revelation comes with another surprise – it turns out her family has a hereditary duty to protect the sea as guardians of the deep.
Family, Friendship, and Choices
With her newfound abilities, Ruby’s life takes an adventurous turn. Her grandmother (Jane Fonda) encourages her to harness her powers and safeguard the sea from nefarious mermaids and other threats. As Ruby navigates her responsibilities, she finds herself drawn to the captivating and mysterious Chelsea (Annie Murphy), a new girl in school who harbors secrets of her own.
The film beautifully weaves family dynamics, friendship, and personal choices, giving the story depth and emotional resonance. Lana Condor delivers a spirited and engaging performance as Ruby, capturing the essence of a teenager discovering her identity and purpose.
A World of Colorful Creativity
One of the film’s standout features is its vibrant and imaginative production design. The vertical town, with its brightly colored and uniquely shaped container-style buildings, adds a touch of whimsy to the setting. The visual creativity brings the world of “Ruby Gillman” to life, offering an enjoyable and visually pleasing experience for viewers of all ages.
Familiar Themes and Lacks Originality
While “Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken” offers an enjoyable and lively experience, it doesn’t venture too far from familiar storytelling tropes. The idea of teenagers embracing their uniqueness and learning to be themselves is a well-worn theme in coming-of-age films. Additionally, the concept of a secret mythical heritage is reminiscent of recent films like “Turning Red.” Though entertaining, the film misses the opportunity to deliver a profoundly original message that lingers in the audience’s memory.
Conclusion
“Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken” is a delightful and heartwarming film that combines fantasy elements with valuable life lessons. It embraces the idea of staying true to oneself, even in the face of extraordinary circumstances. While the film’s creative visuals and spirited characters add to its charm, it falls into familiar territory and lacks a truly unique impact. Nonetheless, “Ruby Gillman” provides a captivating adventure that will entertain audiences and leave them with a sense of hope and empowerment.
