Bringing a Beloved Story to the Big Screen
The classic 1955 children’s book Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson has been transformed into an enchanting film, nearly 70 years after its debut. This adaptation brings Harold’s imaginative world to life with vibrant animation and delightful characters.
From Pages to Reality: Harold’s New Adventure
An endearing animated segment that faithfully recreates the book’s visuals opens the movie. Harold, a small child with a magical purple crayon that allows him to draw anything he can think, embarks on an amazing adventure. Zachary Levi’s portrayal of an adult Harold who still wears his recognizable onesie enters the real world as the narrative progresses. Along on the ride are his animated companions, Moose and Porcupine (voiced by Lil Rel Howery and Tanya Reynolds), who trail him to Providence, Rhode Island via a magical portal while he looks for the “old man,” who serves as the book’s narrator.
Whimsical Encounters in the Real World
The film blends fantasy with reality, reminiscent of Enchanted and Elf. Zooey Deschanel stars as Terry, a real-world character who initially resents Harold’s antics but eventually helps him and his friends after a humorous car accident. Harold’s innocent exploration of the real world provides both comedic moments and endearing interactions.
Imaginative Animation and Heartfelt Messages
Lighthearted humor and gorgeous animation are combined by director Carlos Saldanha, who is well-known for his work on Ice Age and Rio. Harold’s imaginative abilities are emphasized in the movie through quirky creations, such as flying planes and mythical animals. The narrative presents a well-known adversary, Jemaine Clement’s spoken librarian Gary, who seeks to use the crayon’s power for his own gain. As Harold utilizes his powers to create a world where Gary may belong, the movie presents a pleasant lesson in empathy and acceptance despite the traditional struggle.
A Classic Reimagined for Modern Audiences
Harold and the Purple Crayon honors the timeless appeal of the original book while providing inventive graphics and a heartwarming tale, despite the fact that the plot of the movie may seem familiar. All ages will enjoy this entertaining film, which is rated PG for modest action and thematic aspects.
Running time: 92 minutes.
