Monster Island (2017): A Family-Friendly Journey of Self-Discovery and Monster Mayhem
Monster Island (2017), directed by Leopoldo Aguilar, is a Mexican-American animated feature that blends colorful adventure with a heartwarming coming-of-age story. While it may not reach the same heights as major studio animations, it delivers a charming and accessible tale for younger audiences, filled with vibrant visuals, quirky creatures, and an underlying message about identity and acceptance.
The film centers on Lucas, a seemingly average teenage boy who suddenly discovers a shocking truth: he’s not entirely human. After experiencing a strange transformation during a school dance, Lucas learns that he’s descended from a family of monsters. Determined to uncover the truth about his origins, he travels to Monster Island, a secret land where creatures of all shapes and sizes live away from the human world.
On the island, Lucas meets a wide range of fantastical beings—some friendly, others less so—and begins to understand his true nature. Along the way, he is forced to confront the legacy of his family, especially his missing father, who is revealed to be a prominent figure in the monster world. As Lucas embraces his monstrous side, he also learns what it means to be brave, compassionate, and true to oneself.
Visually, Monster Island is lively and colorful, with animation that, while not on par with Pixar or DreamWorks, captures the spirit of adventure and fantasy. The creature designs are imaginative, blending classic monster tropes with fresh twists. From werewolves and gargoyles to cyclops and tentacled creatures, the island is populated with a wild and whimsical array of characters. The world-building may not be deeply complex, but it’s playful and inventive enough to keep young viewers engaged.
The voice acting (in both the original Spanish and English-dubbed versions) delivers solid performances, with Lucas voiced in English by Phillip Adrian Vasquez. Supporting characters like the fierce but friendly Aunt Abel, the sarcastic guide Pug, and the mysterious villain Dr. Simius add humor and conflict to the journey. The interactions between characters strike a balance between comedy and heartfelt moments, particularly as Lucas struggles with feelings of being an outsider.
One of the film’s key themes is self-acceptance. Lucas’s transformation into a monster is a metaphor for adolescence and the feeling of being different. Instead of portraying monsters as purely evil, the film offers a message that what makes you different can also be your greatest strength. It’s a familiar lesson in children’s storytelling but one that remains valuable, especially when paired with a diverse cast of characters and a fantasy setting.
Despite some predictable plot points and basic animation quality compared to big-budget studios, Monster Island has its charm. It moves at a brisk pace, includes action, humor, and just enough emotion to satisfy both kids and parents looking for a wholesome film.
In conclusion, Monster Island is a light, engaging animated adventure that emphasizes the importance of identity, family, and finding your place in the world. While not groundbreaking, it offers a fun and positive experience that young audiences can enjoy and relate to.
