By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
Slumberland is based on Winsor McCay’s comic strip Little Nemo in Slumberland, and if you haven’t heard of it, then I am not surprised, as the comic series went to print at the start of the 20th century! There are a few things taken from the comic run, however, this is very much, on the whole, a new story and modernisation of the source material. What I did know about the original comic was that it appeared in reference and subtly in The Sandman comic series. Given the sensational job Netflix has done with their adaption of The Sandman and how the two properties share similar elements, I was very eager and excited going into this movie! As the credits rolled, I felt a little short-changed…
The pacing in the first act is very sluggish and the movie takes a little while to get going, but once it does, it is a fun movie! With that said, it does take you on a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows – both in terms of pacing and narrative. It is probably a 60-40 split, between the good and the bad, so overall I would recommend Slumberland, as I do think there is an incredible amount of potential here! However, any sequel would have to be much tighter and more well-constructed from a narrative and pacing perspective. I also think the show holds back on the imagination and whimsy at times, especially when you consider that sometimes the movie leaves you speechless with some of the stunning creativity on display! So, it is a little frustrating that it does not live up to its potential.
One thing that is not in doubt is the wonderful performances of the cast! Jason Momoa (Flip) is overflowing with ‘out there’ energy, and it is obvious from his performance that he had such a fun time making this movie! While he very much brings his unique flavours to the role, there were a few sprinkles of Beetlejuice in there which I thought enhanced my enjoyment of his performance. Relative newcomer Marlow Barkley (Nemo) was charming and more than held her own alongside Momoa. Kyle Chandler (Peter) and Weruche Opia (Agent Green) were fantastic in their supporting roles. Still, my pick of the performers, however, was Chris O’Dowd (Philip), who went on such an engaging character journey. I always associate O’Dowd with comedy roles, but this was a very mature and emotional performance and I think that is why his portrayal sticks in my mind in comparison to the rest of the cast.
As for the production, there are plenty of moments of high-end fantasy and dreaming that will please your senses. But then there are moments when some of the digital effects are a little rough around the edges. Again, just like the story and pacing, you have to take the rough with the smooth. Captain Marvel composer Pinar Toprak’s score is really strong from start to finish; however, I feel director Francis Lawrence (Hunger Games, Constantine) had a few issues at the helm, but I am not sure how much of that came down to the writing.
Finally, you’ll fall in love with Pig and Pig was the best! We love Pig!
Overall, Slumberland is an enjoyable, fantastical family adventure, and although there are some pacing and narrative issues, the talented cast ensures this dream does not become a nightmare.
X-Geeks 