The Willoughbys is a 2020 animated comedy film directed by Kris Pearn. The movie is based on a book written by Lois Lowry, and other famous novels by her include The Giver and Number the Stars. This movie is about four neglected children that wish to get rid of their selfish parents by sending them away on an adventurous “vacation”.
When the movie starts, you are greeted by the narrator, the cat, voiced by Ricky Gervais. The cat is a creation of the filmmakers and does not appear in the novel, but he truly builds character for the film, making it feel like you’re reading the book. Each of the Willoughbys have their own distinct personality, except for the twins, Barnaby A & B, because they’re literally the same person.
Jane, voiced by Jane Krakowski, is the brightest of them all, with her “what if’s” and her enchanting vocals. On the other hand, Tim, voiced by Will Forte, wants to keep the family name, honor and pride alive, but he is constantly punished by his parents. The twins act like Jane and Tim’s minions, and they both share the same sweater that their mother has knitted for them.
The rising action of the movie starts when an orphan baby is left out in front of their house, and they all decide to keep it. But the siblings don’t know what to do with the baby, because their parents do not want it and in fact hate babies.
The problem with the Willoughby parents is that they act like children. Meanwhile, the children act more mature for their ages. I like how they have made the adults look foolish and childish, creating a sense of power for the kids. Both of the parents are oblivious to the simple needs of their children, and the family dynamic between the Willoughbys reflects many real-life families like theirs.
Although both the movie and book are intended for younger audiences, anyone can understand the overall message of the film, which is how family is not defined by bloodline or DNA but by love. The ending of the movie makes me feel grateful for the family I have now. I wish that all families end up having a happy relationship, because every child deserves a loving family.
One phrase that I love from the cat himself is that “sometimes, you’re the cat” and “sometimes, you’re the mouse.” This shows how in life, we experience different relationships that shift who we are. We can either chase our dreams and take control of what we do (as the cat) or we let ourselves fall into someone else’s control (as the mouse). Are you the cat or are you the mouse?
I recommend watching The Willoughbys at least once, because it reveals a darker truth about the relationship between parents and children, but it is also very funny. All of the animation and characters are also so cute that it makes the whole plot of the movie more likeable.
And if you’re interested in more movies like The Willoughbys, you should check out The Mitchells vs. The Machines, The Sea Beast, The Twits and The Wild Robot, which can all be found on Netflix.
