Nimona (2023) Dir: Troy Quane & Nick Bruno
- Ridley Coote
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
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This popular animated fantasy film, which was co-directed by Troy Quane and Nick Bruno, is based on the graphic novel by ND Stevenson, which is highly spoken of in its own right, and has consistently been one of the most recommended and positively spoken of Netflix originals to-date. As such, it should come as no surprise that I held relatively high expectations when it came to watching it.
First things first, I should talk about the film's visuals. Not only was the animation absolutely stunning, but the world-building was wonderful. The combination of modern sci-fi and medieval knight aesthetics was a unique and brilliant choice. I also thought that the soundtrack was really fun, and raised the energy levels of the film significantly.
The narrative was stuffed full of rich thematic material, addressing topics like expression, identity, found family, acceptance, among others. It really helped that the film had a very endearing duo of protagonists to drive the story on and build a wholesome bond between them. If I could have one complaint, it would be that the story got a little predictable, but I still enjoyed myself hugely, regardless of that fact. This was a very fun film.
Riz Ahmed's leading vocal performance was very enjoyable, as he was very much able to embody the emotions of the character with the rhythm and delivery of his dialogue to great effect. I honestly think he has a very endearing voice anyway, so this was an ideal character for him to play. Ahmed was able to mix both serious and silly with consummate ease, which only helped in the execution of his would-be serious and brave knight of the realm character.
Chloë Grace Moretz was equally as likable, and played into her character's fun and unhinged nature brilliantly. This role was all about the fun, and Moretz brought that in spades. I loved how energetic she was when called upon - it really helped to bring her excitable and mischievous character to life. The most noteworthy names from the supporting performances were Eugene Lee Yang and Frances Conroy, who each left a fairly memorable impression, despite a relative lack or lines in comparison to the two actors mentioned prior.
Overall, I feel like this would have been such a good film to have seen at the cinema, and I lament that I didn't get that opportunity. This was a wonderful animated adventure, which warmed my heart and left an undeniable emotional impression upon me. What makes this film so good, aside from its witty comedy and exciting action, was its beautiful morals that unfolded like a stunning flower of acceptance as the film progressed. It is a much needed film in such a divided, hateful, and typically conservative landscape. I see you, Nimona.
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