321. Wonder Park; movie review

WONDER PARK
Cert PG
85 mins
BBFC advice: Contains mild threat, scary scenes

Sometimes, it is fine to suspend all thoughts of reality and just let the imagination roll.
Initially, I thought Wonder Park was simply designed to stimulate young minds and give children a bit of a giggle.
On that basis, despite a lukewarm reception from critics, I reckon it succeeds.
But then I read that its makers had loftier ambitions and were trying to inspire "young girls to use science technology, engineering and maths to build, create and change the world."
Nah, only a child genius would be able to spot that this is the aim.
After all, the achievements of the central character, June (Brianna Denski) are rather far-fetched - she and her mother (Jennifer Garner) use their imaginations to create a Wonder Park filled with made-up characters in their home.
And then, somehow, this park turns out to be real and June happens across it in the middle of a wood.
Or did I miss something?
So, yes, while it is true that June is very bright and is well above her usual age group for maths and science, her 'work' is fantasy.
Indeed, it inspires her to help out a group of animals whose amusement park has declined since June's mother has needed medical treatment to resolve a serious illness.
Mila Kunis and John Oliver are the famous voices, adding a bit of humour and excitement before an inevitable conclusion.
Dylan Brown's film prompts a few chuckles and is rather colourful but comes up with far too easy solutions.
However, I am not convinced that young children will worry.
Instead, they will admire its colour, vibrancy and a young energetic heroine who saves the day!

Reasons to watch: Fast-moving animation
Reasons to avoid: Stretches imagination to its limits

Laughs: a couple of chuckles
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 7/10

Did you know? A television series based on the film is scheduled to debut in 2019 on Nickelodeon, making it the third animated film from Nickelodeon Movies, after Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius and Barnyard to serve as the basis for an animated series on the network.

Final word. Brianna Denski: "Once I got the role and got to see some of the scenes, and I got to feel the emotions that June felt, I just really felt in tune with the character. June became me and I became June.” Hollywood Life

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