Cast: Jacob Tremblay, Gaten Matarazzo, Whoopi Goldberg, Judi Greer, Leighton Meester
Director: Nora Twomey
Writer: Meg LeFauve
Cartoon Saloon bring their latest animated feature to the London Film Festival in the shape of My Fathers Dragon. A fantasy folk tale based on the book by Ruth Stiles Gannett of the same name, this time collaborating with Netflix.
Telling the story of Elmer (voiced by Jacob Tremblay) a young boy who has recently relocated to the big city with his single mother from their rural village life. With big dreams of opening their own store in the madness of the city, they struggle to pay their rent and after an argument Elmer runs away in search of opportunities. Elmer meets a friendly cat (Whoopi Goldberg) who tells him about an island off the coast of the city where Elmer will find a dragon who will solve all his problems for him. The star studded cast of fantastic voice acting supports this wholesome tale of friendship, hope and most importantly trust in each other’s strengths. Gaten Matarazzo (Stranger Things) seamlessly provides the voice for Boris, the friendly dragon whom guides Elmer throughout the film.
Cartoon Saloon have had phenomenal success with their independent animated features over the past 13 years. Academy award nominated films such as The Secret of the Kells, The Breadwinner and most recently Wolfwalkers have paved the way for their unique style of creation. My Fathers Dragon continues their tradition of breathtaking animation style and purely magical substance, with its beautiful storytelling and character development.
Paired with a picturesque score and a team of celebrated voice actors, it is one for the whole family to enjoy. The plot moves at a quick pace and is bursting at the seams with whimsy and colour. The character designs are nothing short of magical, which just adds to the mastery of the animation.
Clever, funny and heartwarming, My Fathers Dragon is a masterclass of originality and creativity whilst clinging to the inspiration of the classic fairytales from animation studios such as Disney and Laika.
A wonderful gift from one of the most exciting animation studios working today, a pure joy.
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