Ernest & Celestine
"Bonnie & Clyde, Sid & Nancy..." Ernest and Celestine, 2012.
Ernest & Celestine tells its story in such a wonderful and unique way that many animated PG movies don't do anymore. While yes, it is a kids movie with anthropomorphic bears and mice talking, that is far from the point. It doesn't shy away from what it's trying to say, and doesn't dumb down the story for their audience. The messages and themes of prejudice are simple, but they don't make it on the nose in the way that "Zootopia" sometimes does. It lets the story deliver it instead.
And that said story is such a delight. Wonderful characters, incredible environments, a simple yet charming premise, and a beautiful art style. Everything comes together incredibly, all topped off with amazing animation. The water-color style is visually stunning, and just so fitting to the world and story of the film.
What I really like about this movie is that you can't apply it to the human race. Sure you can try, but it won't make sense overall. It's not like Zootopia where you can easily put a color on the characters. Its themes of prejudice can apply to anyone and anything, and that really makes it special from other films with similar themes.
This movie is just the perfect comfort film, it will leave you satisfied and with a massive smile on your face. Honestly, you know the film as amazing when the only problem is that it's just too short, and not because of underdeveloped characters or anything, it's just too short. But that's more of a nitpick than anything, just a delightful and heartfelt film.
9.5/10