★★★

director: Ali Samadi Ahadi (lost children)

REVIEWER: lyall carter

Pete embarks on an enchanting journey together with June bug Mr. Zoomzeman and the Sandman to rescue his little sister from the evil Moon Man.

When Peter sets out on a magical journey to rescue his little sister Anne, he needs to travel to mysterious territory: the Moon! Anne was kidnapped by the evil Moon Man when she tried to help the beetle Mr. Zoomzeman in search for his wife. On his fantastic adventure, Peter lands on the Star Meadow where he meets the sleepy Mr. Sandman. Only at the Night Fairy’s dinner in the castle in the clouds, they can find out where Anne is – but there aren’t enough seats for everyone. So they join the wild race along the Milky Way against the five Spirits of Nature: Storm Giant, Lightning Witch, Henry Hail, Rainy Robin and Mother Frost…

In a world that is still being impacted by Covid the once full to the brim school holiday kid friendly release schedule, apart from Space Jam 2, seems a little empty. But the scarcity of children flicks has given the opportunity for and the gem that is Moonbound to enjoy on the silver screen. Moonbound is a feast for the eyes and soul for adults and children alike, with a whole lot of laughter and imagination thrown in for good measure. 

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Moonbound crams a lot into its narrative and is one of the most imaginative children’s films in recent memory. Some of that fantasy come sci-fi stuff ideas work but there are a few here and there that seem a little far fetched. 

But fantasy and soaring sci-fi moments aside, Moonbound is a story that reminds us of the importance of family, friendship and history. While at times the quality of the animation doesn’t stand up to the likes of Pixar, Disney or Illumination, there is still enough here to give Moonbound the feel of a fully rendered and believable world. 

Moonbound is a feast for the eyes and soul for adults and children alike, with a whole lot of laughter and imagination thrown in for good measure.