‘The Wild Robot’ is one of the best kids movies we’ve seen in a long time

When it comes to family animations, I’ve seen more than a few…some are simply on repeat in my house. I know Maui’s entire ‘You're Welcome’ rap from Moana verbatim, so I feel like this makes me eminently qualified to report on the subject.

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The holy grail of family animations is always a story that works on multiple levels. Humour and action and excitement for the kids, and an emotional depth and complexity for the grown-ups.. (Plus, a few ‘grown-up’ jokes for good measure.)

On this basis, DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot delivers in spades.

I don’t know if it’s the middle-aged hormones speaking, but gosh, The Wild Robot was an emotional ride! The movie is a heartwarming and visually stunning adaptation of Peter Brown’s beloved novel. Directed by Chris Sanders, the creative mind behind family favourites like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch, this film is an absolute winner for all ages. 

What’s the Wild Robot about?

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At the heart of the story is Roz, voiced beautifully by Lupita Nyong’o, a shipwrecked robot stranded on an uninhabited island. 

As Roz navigates the rugged wilderness, she encounters an array of animals, each voiced by a talented ensemble cast, including Pedro Pascal as the cunning fox Fink and Catherine O’Hara as the quirky opossum Pinktail. 

But it’s the bond Roz forms with a young orphaned gosling named Brightbill, voiced by Kit Connor, that truly melts the heart. Roz’s transformation from a cold, mechanical being to a nurturing parent is a journey that explores what it means to be alive, to care, and to belong.

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One for the mums that will hit you in the feels

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And this is where the complexity in the film lies… To any mother watching The Wild Robot, the story of sacrifice and selflessness at the expense of your original purpose, and even at times your own physical well-being, hit me right in the feels. 

Roz discovers that being a mother to Brightbill is her unexpected purpose. It was such a beautiful, honest reflection on what it’s like to be a parent. Giving everything for your little people.

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A powerful message of inclusion

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One of the film’s most powerful messages is about inclusion, and it’s reflected in both Roz and Brightbill’s journeys. 

Roz, who initially seems so different from the animals around her – mechanical, emotionless, and out of place, slowly learns that it’s her unique abilities that make her special. 

The animals also start to understand that Roz has so much to offer, despite her unusual appearance. Similarly, as a small and seemingly fragile gosling, Brightbill is judged by some of the island’s animals for his appearance and perceived limitations. Yet, with Roz’s support and love, he proves time and again that he has his own unique strengths. 

This beautiful dynamic shows both children and parents alike that it’s important to look beyond surface-level differences. Just because someone looks, sounds, or acts differently doesn’t mean they don’t have incredible things to offer. This theme is something we hold close to our hearts at Kiindred – ensuring that neurodivergent kids, who may not fit the mould, are included and nurtured, not judged. The film’s gentle message reminds us all that our differences are what make us special. To be curious, not judgemental.

But what did the kids think?

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We took our Kiindred mini-reviewers to see The Wild Robot and put the movie to the test. 

All six kids (aged 5 to 10) managed to sit still and enjoy the whole film with minimal fidgeting, distractions and toilet breaks, which is practically a miracle… especially for the neurospicy ones.  

Some of the scenes were a little frightening to the 5 year old, who climbed into my lap, but once she got to know the characters she relaxed into the story. The kids laughed out loud at the numerous jokes throughout, with the little family of possums making for great comic-relief from some of the more intense action fuelled sequences. 

All the kids agreed that it was a very emotional film, and have had a great time quoting the movie ever since!

Wrapping it up

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At its core, The Wild Robot is a moving exploration of identity, connection, and survival. 

The film doesn’t shy away from deeper themes that adults will enjoy, like the interplay between technology and nature, but it does so in a way that’s accessible to young viewers. It’s a reminder that even in the most unexpected circumstances, we can find family, love, and a sense of purpose.

So, gather the kids and the popcorn, settle in, and brace yourself for the emotional rollercoaster of The Wild Robot – an epic tale of discovery, love, inclusion, and what it means to truly live.

We give this movie 5 Kiindred Stars!