11-year-old Mildred's world is turned upside down when her estranged father, the washed-up magician Strawn Wise, comes to look after her and agrees to take her camping to find a mythological beast known as the Canterbury Panther.
Bookworm, directed by Ant Timpson and co-written with Toby Harvard, stars Elijah Wood, Michael Smiley, and Nell Fisher. The film explores the relationship between a father and his estranged daughter as they embark on an adventure into the wilderness. While it invites comparisons to other family adventure films, Bookworm offers its own distinct narrative.
Nell Fisher shines as Mildred, a bright and courageous child who proudly identifies as a bookworm. Her character is marked by an impressive intellect and ambitions far beyond her years. Fisher brings a unique charm to Mildred, making her a memorable presence in the story. Elijah Wood portrays Strawn, a magician who has travelled across the globe to reconnect with the daughter he has never known. Wood's performance adds a quirky and slightly melancholic energy to Strawn, a character navigating the challenges of fatherhood and redemption.
The film's narrative focuses on the potential bonding of this unlikely duo. Timpson employs a creative visual technique to mark the beginning of their adventure: the aspect ratio shifts from a restrictive Academy ratio to a wider format, symbolizing Mildred's newfound freedom as they explore the expansive New Zealand landscape. This change not only highlights the stunning scenery but also metaphorically represents the opening of new possibilities and perspectives for the characters.
The visual effects, particularly the CGI, are occasionally uneven, and some action sequences could be more compelling. Nevertheless, the cinematography, led by Daniel Katz, beautifully captures New Zealand's natural beauty, with breathtaking shots of jagged mountains, dense forests, and serene lakesides. This visual splendour enhances the overall viewing experience.
Bookworm follows a familiar formula: Strawn grapples with regrets, while Mildred has her own hidden motivations. As they navigate their relationship, they experience bonding, conflict, and reconciliation. These story elements are competently executed, though they may feel familiar to those well-versed in the genre. Mildred's character, while endearing, occasionally borders on being overly precocious, and the script does not delve deeply into the complexities of her tough exterior.
The film maintains a light-hearted and family-friendly tone, often using humour at Strawn's expense. Michael Smiley's character, a traveller who briefly joins their journey, adds some energy to the narrative, though his role feels more like a plot device to extend the runtime.
While the film may not evoke deep emotional resonance for all viewers, it balances humour and heartfelt moments, aiming to create a warm and engaging atmosphere. The narrative does rely on exposition, with characters often explaining events and their backgrounds through dialogue. This approach may reduce the film's emotional impact, as it can prevent viewers from fully immersing themselves in the characters' experiences.
Despite these challenges, Bookworm is a visually appealing and well-acted film. It maintains a PG rating, though some of the dialogue and language choices may seem a bit mature for younger audiences. The film tells the story of a reluctant parent and a child in need, set against the backdrop of a picturesque wilderness adventure.
While the film offers moments of visual beauty and occasional emotional beats, it may not achieve the depth and impact expected of the genre. Bookworm is a pleasant family film, offering an enjoyable experience with its own charm, even if it does not entirely stand out within its genre.
Bookworm is set for nationwide release in NZ cinemas from August 8, 2024