Review: Missing Link

PLOT: Looking for the next big discovery, famed but unlucky explorer Sir Lionel Frost is mysteriously called upon by the legendary Sasquatch. Once the two meet, the monster who they call Mister Link convinces the adventurer to help him find his long lost relatives. And with the help of fellow explorer Adeline Fortnight, the trio embark upon their mystical journey into the unknown.

REVIEW: Ten years ago the magic of CORALINE inspired audiences with its charmingly creepy storyline and impressive stop motion animation. Since then, Laika Entertainment has time and again thrilled us with original stories, and adventures that are far larger than one would ever expect from a smaller animation company. Opening today, Laika returns with yet another beautifully realized story that is perfect for the whole family. MISSING LINK is a bright and creative comedic adventure that features Hugh Jackman, Zach Galifianakis, Zoe Saldana, Timothy Olyphant, Stephen Fry, Matt Lucas, David Williams and Emma Thompson. While it may not have the massive scope and the emotionally charged power of KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS, it certainly has a huge heart and is still quite the visual feast.

Sir Lionel Frost (Jackman) is desperate to be treated seriously as an explorer. Unfortunately for him, his attempts to seek such beasts as the Loch Ness Monster don’t always work out, leaving him the laughing stock of his peers. Things soon change when he receives a mysterious letter telling him where to seek out the famed Sasquatch. This search is made easier because this particular urban myth is ready to be discovered by Frost. Going by the name “Mister Link” (Galifianakis), the "monster" convinces his new explorer friend to help him locate his long lost relatives in the mystical valley of Shangri-La. The two set their course, with a little help from an old acquaintance of Frost; adventurer Adelina Fortnight (Saldana). Yet the journey isn’t going to be easy thanks to a jealous adversary looking to stop Frost from making the discovery of a lifetime.

Whenever you talk about Laika, while you can always go on about their smart casting, you should probably start with the production itself. Much like the previous films from the studio, MISSING LINK is a well crafted stop motion feature come to life. From the opening scene that creatively introduces us to Frost while on an expedition, to its thrilling final sequence, this is an impressive work. The animators behind Laika always brings a level of craft and beauty to their creations and this is no exception. While this globetrotting fantasy doesn’t feel quite as bold and magical as KUBO, it’s still an original creation with impressive sets and incredibly detailed characters and landscapes. To think every single thing put on screen is built by the artists is still mind-blowing.

Written and directed by Chris Butler (PARANORMAN), this modern day animated adventure is a fresh and enjoyable story, one that may be the most mainstream film Laika has presented. It explores a tale of friendship and discovery, one that will easily connect to young audiences, while still allowing the older fans to delight in the beauty and humor. As well, unlike a lot of animated movies released, the story manages to surprise and avoid being overly predictable. You certainly may have a sense of what will happen to Frost, Fortnight and their pal Link, however, there are a few exciting surprises along the way. As well, you have plenty of laughs and a perhaps a few tears to keep you entertained.

For the character of Link, Galifianakis is an intriguing choice. And frankly, a very good one. The actor brings his lovable humor to Link, and still manages to make this beast a sweet natured – and perhaps a wee bit dense – unlikely hero. As well, Jackman and Saldana bring life and heart to both of their characters. It is impossible not to connect to this trio. As well, Stephen Fry is a perfect choice for the appropriately named Lord Piggot-Dunceby. And Olyphant is always a reliable talent, and he lends his voice to Willard Stenk. Perhaps the only thing that is truly obvious in these films is the evil sounding character names given to the heroes adversaries.

MISSING LINK is yet another win for Laika. It may not have the massive scope that KUBO offered, but it's certainly a delightful story. In fact, out of all of their films, LINK may be their most audience accessible. This is simply a story of friendship and family, one that feels a bit more quiet and personal compared to their past couple of films. Butler – with the help of animators, artists and Galifianakis – has given audiences a leading characters this is sublimely sweet without making him frustratingly goofy. Link is a lovable creation, and the bond he shares with his explorer friends is just delightful. Hopefully, this impressive work will introduce even more people to the incredible work from this creative company. If you are looking for a great family film that is unique with a massive heart, you can’t do much better than MISSING LINK.