Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inclusive stop-motion film has supernatural scares.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Wendell & Wild
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 8 parent reviews
What's the Story?
WENDELL & WILD is a stop-motion animated film about teenage Kat (voiced Lyric Ross), who lost her parents at an early age in a tragic crash. Her grief and shame about the circumstances of their death contribute to a troubled life that leads to her being sent to a bleak girls' school in hopes of being "reformed." But it's there that she learns of her destiny as a Hell Maiden and summons Wendell (Keegan-Michael Key) and Wild (Jordan Peele), two mischievous demons who promise that they can give her what she most desires.
Is It Any Good?
This fantastic film is as heartfelt as it is scary. It's perfect for the Halloween season, but it can really be viewed at any time, since its messages about grief and the courage to overcome your demons -- real or otherwise -- are relatable to all.
The film (which, as Monkeypaw Productions' first animated film, marks a creative expansion for Peele's storytelling empire) features exceptional voice talent, including Ross as main character Kat and Angela Bassett as her imposing teacher/mentor, Sister Helley. Overall, the casting lives up to Monkeypaw's mission of boosting diversity in Hollywood films, featuring authentically cast stars like James Hong, Tamara Smart, Sam Zelaya, Ving Rhames, Tantoo Cardinal, and more. The result is a film that gives people of color dignity and agency. The film's plot takes a while to set up, which may enthrall some viewers and aggravate others. But overall, Wendell & Wild is a must-see for fans of Peele's work and for fans of animation and terrific storytelling overall.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about grief. How does Kat process her grief in Wendell & Wild? Is it healthy? Why, or why not? How does she learn to overcome her shame surrounding her parents' death?
What parts of the movie did you find scary? How much scary stuff is OK for kids?
What makes the film a stand-out in terms of racial and gender representation? Why is positive representation in the media important?
What are Wendell and Wild's motivations? Are they inherently evil?
How do characters demonstrate empathy, compassion, teamwork, and courage?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 21, 2022
- On DVD or streaming: October 28, 2022
- Cast: Lyric Ross , Keegan-Michael Key , Jordan Peele
- Director: Henry Selick
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Black actors, Black writers
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy , Friendship , Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
- Character Strengths: Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time: 105 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG-13
- MPAA explanation: some thematic material, violence, substance use and brief strong language
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: February 17, 2023
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