The Disney+ original film Flora & Ulysses combines heartfelt storytelling with comic-book-style humor in a unique blend of action, adventure, and family drama. Based on Kate DiCamillo’s beloved children’s book, this live-action film introduces viewers to Flora, a 10-year-old self-proclaimed cynic, and her unlikely partner, Ulysses, a CGI squirrel with superhero powers. But is Flora & Ulysses safe for kids? Let’s dive into an in-depth movie review to explore its themes, visuals, age-appropriate content, and whether it makes a good fit for family movie night.
Flora & Ulysses Movie Review | Safe for Kids? Parents Guide
Plot Overview
The story centers around Flora Buckman, a comic book enthusiast dealing with her parents’ separation. When a squirrel named Ulysses gains extraordinary abilities after a vacuum cleaner mishap, Flora’s life takes a wild turn. Ulysses can write poetry, lift objects with incredible strength, and even fly. Together, Flora and Ulysses embark on a series of adventures, facing challenges like an overzealous animal control officer and a budding friendship that helps Flora believe in hope and magic once again.
This family-friendly film balances whimsical humor with heartfelt moments, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
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Main Themes
Flora & Ulysses explores several key themes:
- Family Separation: Flora navigates the emotional impact of her parents’ divorce.
- Hope and Optimism: The film highlights the importance of finding joy and positivity amidst challenges.
- Unlikely Heroes: Ulysses the squirrel showcases that even the smallest creatures can be superheroes.
- Imagination and Wonder: Through comic book Easter eggs and superhero references, the movie inspires creativity.
These thematic elements provide teachable moments for children while keeping adults engaged.
The Visuals
Style of CGI Animation
The star of the movie, Ulysses, is brought to life through impressive CGI. The CGI squirrel strikes the right balance between realism and cartoonish charm, ensuring it appeals to both kids and adults. His expressive eyes and quirky mannerisms make him a memorable character.
Set Design
The suburban backdrop adds relatability to the story. Flora’s house, cluttered with books and comic paraphernalia, reflects her creative and curious nature.
Cinematography
The cinematography employs vibrant lighting and dynamic framing, especially during action sequences. For instance, Ulysses’ flight scenes are visually stunning, capturing the sense of wonder.
Comparison with Other Disney Films
Visually, Flora & Ulysses aligns with other Disney original movies like Timmy Failure and Stargirl, emphasizing creativity while maintaining a family-friendly tone.
The Story
Plot Breakdown
The narrative weaves lighthearted comedy with moments of emotional depth. Flora’s relationship with Ulysses serves as the central focus, while her parents’ struggles with divorce add complexity. The story doesn’t shy away from addressing real-life issues like loneliness and resilience, making it relatable for children and parents alike.
Comic Book Inspiration
Kate DiCamillo’s children’s book adaptation retains the whimsical charm of the source material, infused with superhero references and delightful comic book Easter eggs. For example, Flora often compares Ulysses’ feats to her favorite superheroes, creating moments of humor and nostalgia.
Character Arcs
- Flora: From a cynic to a believer in hope, Flora undergoes a significant transformation.
- Ulysses: As the unexpected hero, Ulysses embodies courage and loyalty.
- Flora’s Parents: Their journey toward mutual understanding adds depth to the story.
Humor and Drama
The film’s tone is a mix of quirky humor and heartfelt drama, ensuring it holds the attention of a diverse audience.
That PG Rating Explained
What Parents Should Know
Flora & Ulysses is rated PG for mild action, thematic elements, and animal violence. While the content is mostly suitable for children, some scenes may warrant parental guidance.
Violence and Peril
- Cartoonish Action: The tranquilizer gun used by the animal control officer is depicted in a slapstick manner, minimizing its intensity.
- Animal Violence: Scenes involving Ulysses in peril, such as being trapped or chased, are lighthearted but could unsettle sensitive viewers.
Language and Humor
The humor is family-friendly, with no offensive language or inappropriate jokes.
Emotional Content
The divorce themes may resonate with children who have experienced family separation. However, these moments are handled with sensitivity.
Comparison with Similar Films
Compared to other kids’ movies with animal CGI, such as Paddington or The One and Only Ivan, Flora & Ulysses takes a slightly more comedic approach while maintaining emotional depth.
Flora & Ulysses Age Rating for Kids
Recommended Viewing Ages
This movie age rating for kids suggests it’s ideal for children aged 7+. Younger viewers may enjoy the humor and visuals, but the emotional undertones might be too complex for them.
Parental Guidance Suggestions
Parents can use the movie as an opportunity to discuss:
- Coping with family separation.
- Finding hope during difficult times.
- The importance of creativity and imagination.
Accessibility
With its universal themes and engaging visuals, the film caters to both English-speaking audiences and non-native speakers, making it inclusive for a global audience.
The Overall Verdict
Strengths
- Wholesome, heartwarming story.
- Relatable characters and universal themes.
- High-quality CGI and engaging visuals.
Weaknesses
- Predictable plot points in some sequences.
- Emotional themes may be too heavy for very young viewers.
Is It Worth Watching?
Flora & Ulysses is a delightful family movie that balances action and comedy with deeper lessons. It’s an excellent choice for families looking for something entertaining yet meaningful on Disney+.
Flora & Ulysses in the Context of Disney+ Content
As a Disney+ streaming film, Flora & Ulysses fits perfectly within the platform’s lineup of family-friendly movies. It complements titles like Timmy Failure and Stargirl, offering a mix of humor, adventure, and heart.
Follow Flora & Ulysses on Social Media
Stay updated on Flora & Ulysses by following:
- Twitter: @DisneyPlus
- Instagram: @DisneyPlus
Additional Family-Friendly Reviews to Check Out
Looking for more recommendations? Don’t miss these:
- Soul: A heartwarming exploration of purpose.
- The Secret Garden: A magical journey into nature.
- Onward: A tale of brotherhood and courage.
Flora & Ulysses: Release Information and Final Thoughts
Flora & Ulysses premiered on February 19, 2021, exclusively on Disney+. Its combination of humor, heartfelt storytelling, and superhero antics makes it a must-watch for fans of children’s book adaptations and movies for animal lovers. Gather your family, prepare some snacks, and get ready for an adventure that’s equal parts funny and touching.
This comprehensive review captures the essence of Flora & Ulysses while providing valuable insights for parents. Whether you’re a fan of superhero stories or simply looking for a wholesome kids’ movie with animal CGI, this live-action film is sure to delight.
Tina Grey is an experienced blogger with a passion for uncovering the best in film. With years of writing and a keen eye for detail, Tina brings insightful reviews and engaging content to Parentzia. Her deep love for movies, combined with her expertise, helps readers discover must-watch films across genres. When she’s not reviewing, Tina enjoys exploring new cinematic trends and sharing her love of film with her audience.
