From the director of Elf, Iron Man, and Chef comes this new film that makes Jon Favreau an even more distinct film creator. The Jungle Book is a live-action take on the older Disney film which I personally cannot remember if I actually enjoyed. One thing I do remember about the cartoon version is that I found the music quite annoying. Jon Favreau uses this music again in the new version, but for some reason I felt less annoyed. This is probably because Christopher Walken's and Bill Murray's singing voices are odd and yet entertaining. In fact, all of the animal voice acting was great in my opinion.
One problem that I had with the film was Neel Sethi's acting. Usually I love to see a new actor on screen performing a fresh take on an old story, but Sethi's acting felt forced. Every time he talked, the cheesiness of the Disney franchise really came out. Of course, I understand that he is a young actor in a big role but I'm sure there could've been a better role for him and a better actor for Mowgli.
Although the main character came off as super cheesy at times, I loved almost every other aspect of the film. I saw the 2D version of the film and the CGI was spectacular. This was clearly no small feat for the special effects staff and I am sure the 3D version of the film is even more spectacular. I am a bit disappointed that there is a rumored Jungle Book 2 because this film is a clear standalone and it really does not need a sequel. I'm sure the effects will be about the same and the acting will also be about the same. The story will probably fall away from the original product though, but I guess we will just have to wait and see!
The Bottom Line: This film is a visual spectacle that is well acted by everyone except for the main character.
Score: 7.7/10
One problem that I had with the film was Neel Sethi's acting. Usually I love to see a new actor on screen performing a fresh take on an old story, but Sethi's acting felt forced. Every time he talked, the cheesiness of the Disney franchise really came out. Of course, I understand that he is a young actor in a big role but I'm sure there could've been a better role for him and a better actor for Mowgli.
Although the main character came off as super cheesy at times, I loved almost every other aspect of the film. I saw the 2D version of the film and the CGI was spectacular. This was clearly no small feat for the special effects staff and I am sure the 3D version of the film is even more spectacular. I am a bit disappointed that there is a rumored Jungle Book 2 because this film is a clear standalone and it really does not need a sequel. I'm sure the effects will be about the same and the acting will also be about the same. The story will probably fall away from the original product though, but I guess we will just have to wait and see!
The Bottom Line: This film is a visual spectacle that is well acted by everyone except for the main character.
Score: 7.7/10
