“Migration,” the latest animated feature from Illumination Studios, joins the avian-themed cinematic trend with a tale that falls short of its potential. The film revolves around the Mallards, a duck family who embark on an accidental adventure to New York City, led by the cautious Mack (voiced by Kumail Nanjiani) and his adventurous wife Pam (Elizabeth Banks). Despite the promising setup and a talented voice cast, including Danny DeVito and Awkwafina, “Migration” struggles to captivate audiences beyond its young target demographic.
Overview
After a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, the Mallard family embarks on a family road trip, from New England, to New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
The narrative, penned by Mike White and co-directed by Benjamin Renner, unfortunately, lacks the depth and charm found in their previous works. The film’s visuals and storytelling are criticized for being formulaic and forgettable, failing to leverage the creative potential of its team. While it may offer some distraction for young viewers with its bright colors and simple slapstick humor, “Migration” misses the opportunity to deliver a memorable cinematic experience.
In conclusion, “Migration” is a lackluster addition to the animated genre, primarily appealing to children under the age of 8. It’s a film that might entertain but is unlikely to leave a lasting impression.