Studio Ponoc’s The Imaginary portrays the depths of humanity and creativity through the eyes of young Amanda and her imaginary companion, Rudger, a boy no one can see imagined by Amanda to share her thrilling make-believe adventures. But when Rudger, suddenly alone, arrives at The Town of Imaginaries, where forgotten Imaginaries live and find work, he faces a mysterious threat. Directed by renowned animator Yoshiyuki Momose (Spirited Away), The Imaginary is an unforgettable adventure of love, loss, and the healing power of imagination. The groundbreaking hand-drawn animation of The Imaginary is heightened by first-of-their-kind techniques of light and shadow. The Imaginary is based on the beloved and award-winning novel of the same name by A.F. Harrold and illustrated by Emily Gravett (Bloomsbury Publishing).
If you’re interested in a story that illustrates what can move you or your peers, give Netflix’s The Imaginary a watch. While the film may not be for everyone, there are aspects that most can relate to. We all have imagined things in life, and while doing so explored all the possibilities of what’s capable in reality. Some of our imaginations are vast, creative, and endless, and this story is a love letter to those sentiments. If you’re into wild vivid animations, random dream-like sequences, and characters with deep emotions, you may be in for a treat.
Meet Rudger (Kokoro Terada), an imaginary character conjured up by his best friend Amanda (Rio Suzuki) who is actually based in reality. No one can see or hear Rudger except for Amanda as she lives her life as a small girl in elementary school. Initially, it does seem as if Amanda is too old to be having such thoughts and conversing with imaginary friends, but there is no shame in her game. She has an endless amount of pride in her friend Rudger, holding no reservations. What’s great about their arc together is the friendship they possess. Rudger is created through certain traumatic events that Amanda had to endure. What makes this all fascinating is the reason why. This film speaks volumes about how we as human beings cope with the misfortunes that are inevitable in life sometimes. Some of us seek therapy, counseling, or religion, while others create imaginary friends. Amanda chose the latter, and it’s an exciting journey as we see these two fulfill each other’s lives.
The standout of this film comes from the animation department. It’s simply stunning and unlike anything you’ve seen before with this level of production. It has its own unique style as characters, objects, and emotions come to life from all different directions. It’s a mixed blend of 2D and 3D-like images morphed together seamlessly like a fever dream. Though instead of being a nightmare you can’t wake up from, you’re embracing every moment as if you’re in your own interpretation of what heaven would be. Imagining an endless amount of harmony activating all of your senses all together as one is a great way to describe how the animation unfolds. The only setback is that the film should’ve displayed more than it did, because it’s truly a wonderful experience.
However, the audience for Imaginary is geared more towards children without a doubt. Adults will enjoy this film and will get more out of it watching with their kids. Sure, there is still some enjoyment to be had with adults watching it alone, but some of the film’s playful themes will cause some older crowds to lose focus. At worst an adult may say, “Oh that’s a cute little film,” but it would be difficult to say the majority of adults will be running to their friends recommending this as a must-watch like some do with other Pixar films. On a positive note, the tone of this movie is unlike the previously mentioned studio, definitely containing its own illuminating flare. What most adults will attach themselves to is the notion of dealing with grief when a loved one is lost. Some younger audiences can’t always comprehend that a person isn’t coming back when they pass, but that’s of course no issue for adults.
The way Rodger dealt with the grief of witnessing someone else go through it was heartwarming and sad. The level of maturity that he possessed during those moments was full of emotion and sadness. Make sure you bring your tissue. His empathy for others and what they’re going through displayed so much positivity from his character. You’ll end up respecting him even more than you did before, motivating you to root for him more intensely when he’s faced with a challenge. Amanda didn’t have as much screen time, and that may have been necessary, but when she was present she displayed a great sense of range. The antagonist, Mr. Bunting (Issei Ogata), was utterly disgusting. If the filmmakers wanted to convey a child molesting rapist they succeeded hands down with his energy. He completed the job necessary if our main cast needed to face stakes in the film.
The film ended as it should, bringing everything together. While personally I don’t feel this film was for me, I was still smiling during the last closing seconds. It was something about the conclusion that brought me back to my childhood, and that’s always appreciated. While it wasn’t my usual cup of tea, it still deserves recognition during awards seasons for the animation alone. I can say that with an objective lens due to its dazzling distinctive style. This film is recommended for many audiences with a special taste, but again it’s hard to say it’s for the masses. Though my personal opinion shouldn’t hold too much weight, because admittedly the film is still at the least enjoyable with great feel-good moments.
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