The humor in Blue Sky’s adaptation of the picture-book classic, ‘Ferdinand’, largely relies on the anomalous nature of the titular character, itself. Ferdinand, a bull with a big heart, would rather smell flowers than fight. The characteristics of Ferdinand are seemingly deliberately made to to form a portrait of non-violence, something endearingly affectionate and for the most part, charming.
In the film, John Cena voices the titular bull who escapes from the ranch after learning his father died in a bull fight, convinced that fighting in the ring simply isn’t the life he is destined to live. He finds Mina, a cheerful girl, and her family of flower growers, who will then take care of him until the natives mistake him for a beast, and bring him back to the ranch. There, he receives a mixed reactions: awe for his sheer new size, from new faces, and threats from old enemies who still believe getting picked to fight the matadors, is the only way to get out. A master plan to escape again, ensues, and after finding out that no one really goes home alive after fighting in the ring, Ferdinand has to convince both friends and rivals to come with him, and that includes Valiente, his toughest competitor and biggest bully–yes, literally ‘bully’. An explosive chase comes afterwards, and this is where the most thrilling moments take place. With Ferdinand, is band of misfits that includes a free spirited goat, who dreams to coach the greatest bull of all time, a group of hedgehogs who owns a great deal of talent in stealing things (they like to call themselves ‘survivors’), and his closest rivals.
There are resounding metaphors that truly linger amid the chaotic adventure of Ferdinand towards freedom and ‘home’. The narrative does not necessarily surprise with its attempt to make a bull, as its very symbol of peace and kindness, but it does border to implausibility, sometimes. But then, to dislike a bull whose concern for everybody’s well-being is bigger than for himself, does not totally sound forgivable, at all.
‘Ferdinand’ may have been more exciting and fun, if you are just kid who finds the smallest act of absurdity, hilarious. But the film’s hilarious, that’s for sure. There is a scene in the film where Ferdinand tries to make his way, as careful as possible, through a pottery shop, and there is one where horses and bulls engage in a humorous dance showdown. The film thrives through such absurd moments, but it blooms at instances where the titular character’s humongous heart is made to shine. Nick Jonas’ lively song, ‘Home, makes a suitable anthem for the band’s pursuit for independence, and for a film that genuinely inspires people to embrace who they really are, to be kind, and to be compassionate, a song that celebrates self-appreciation, is a fitting instrument. 3.5/5 rating.
‘Ferdinand’ opens on January 8, nationwide.
5 – Excellent 4 – Very Good 3 – Good 2 – Tolerable 1 – Terrible
