mermaids vs krakens review

i saw the new Ruby Gillman movie. I would say it`s alright. I was expecting more than what was already shown in the trailer. since i initially presumed that there would be some kind of a huge plot twist, but i guess we never got any of that.

The premise of mermaids vs krakens is interesting and worth exploration, but the story is what we`ve seen hundreds of times in other films ; friend is actually true villain, teenage romance, generational trauma, main character of royal background, accept who you are, be yourself, blah blah blah.

the protagonist Ruby is also mundane. She is a typical awkward teenager who is secretly an overpowered kraken, and that`s all about her. The only character I find interesting is the main villain Chelsea due to her character design, even though she is another typical villain. Had the trailer not spoiled the movie, I would have been convinced that she and Ruby were friends deep down.

however, the things I do enjoy about the film are the animation and visuals. I like the squishy animation, which I think fits with the oceanic creature of the krakens.

And of course, I love the concept of mermaids being the true monsters of the ocean, which is a clever twist on the traditional belief that mermaids are gentle and benevolent creatures. Chelsea`s design and her being the villain is meant to satirize Ariel from Disney`s Little Mermaid, so I found that intriguing. I do wish that there were more mermaids besides Chelsea, the movie is basically saying mermaids are bad. So I disagree with those who insist the message should have been ''not all mermaids are bad'' despite the film designed to punch a hole into that belief.

how I would have better shaped the story is by giving more time and space for character development. I would also have Ruby and Chelsea spend more time to leave a larger impact on the betrayal. Maybe even have Chelsea feel at least a little guilt towards probably her only true friend. Or Chelsea is really just apathetic and siren-like. either way, having them spend more time together would have been something that worked.

I think the movie is okay overall. I was expecting more, I hope there will be a sequel.

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