Review of Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle (2018) by Nate Z — 24 Dec 2018

This Rudyard Kipling tale was recently explored in the 2016 film, The Jungle Book. Inevitably, this movie will be compared to that picture. Unfair as it is, the 2016 movie will be in people's minds when they view this flick. These two films take vastly different paths which is clear early on. This film directed by Andy Serkis feels much more lived in and more of an actual threat to the main character.

I choose not to address the previous film because it is really apples and oranges. Jon Favreau chose to focus on directing more of a live adaptation of Disney's vision. This film is a more thorough exploration of Kipling's classic tale and a more truthful exploration. Serkis replicates the dark atmosphere of the jungle in breathtaking detail. CGI has advanced far beyond its primitive origins and there are still limitations. Sometimes, the appearance of the creatures appears as more similar to a videogame but there are times which blow you away. The appearance of Bagheera draws you in and the animals take on a more humanistic quality by resembling the voice actors in the face.

The assemblage of talent for this movie is impressive and helps elevate this passion project of Serkis. Bale brings a sympathetic and wise side to Bagheera. You feel for his decisions molding Mowgli as a young child and trying to condition him to the hardships he will face. Also, you get a sense of a fierce side which can be difficult for him to turn off. Serkis makes his presence known as the tough love no nonsense Baloo. You will not catch Baloo humming any catchy tunes and his appearance shows a character who has been through some trauma. Blanchett comes off as philosophical as Kaa the menacing and ever watchful snake.

The most imposing is of course Shere Khan played by the robust voice of Benedict Cumberbatch. Here, he gives the character a real nastiness and unhinged obsession with Mowgli not seen in previous iterations. None of the characters feel out of place or lovable creatures but rather creatures hardened by the hardships of the jungle. There is an obvious care for the well-being of Mowgli but also the important distinction where he can't be treated with kiddie gloves.

Jungle here is unforgiving and it will turn off some viewers. This seems more accurate what a jungle would feel and embody if someone had to grow in this environment. A stark reminder of the cruelty of the jungle is when Mowgli is covered in blood and saved by a pack of wolves. There are many powerful and poignant scenes exploring Mowgli's place in this world. Mowgli himself acknowledges he is neither a man nor a wolf. This was a theme I really enjoyed for its simplicity but something we can relate to when it comes to identity.

Ultimately, this is a snapshot of Mowgli trying to find his place in the world but facing omnipresent dangers. Also, another theme presents itself such as the push of colonialism. The inhabitants of the jungle are increasingly forced out of their surroundings. There are surreal shots of attacks on wildlife and the carcasses being left to rot. Hunters press on hunting for the elusive tiger known as Shere Khan. There is a certain beauty to the way conservationism is explored.

You could also make the case there is a circle of life of sorts in the jungle. A hierarchy and laws of the jungle must be followed. This gives the creatures of the jungle purpose and makes them more intelligent than previously considered. A little world building goes on here almost creating politics among the various animals.

Perhaps, a little more attention could be given to resolving the visuals of this film. The committed performances of the actors elevate this film beyond the strong writing. Mowgli is still given center stage and serves as a breakout vehicle for Rohan Chand with wisdom beyond his years. The jungle feels real and a place with real threats. Be warned this is not a family feature in the sense everything will turn out eventually. There are real stakes but its importance is that it shows the world can be a dangerous place and not everything will be handed to you. Additionally, it reveals you can survive with the support of some good people or in this case benevolent but creatures with rough edges.