‘Smallfoot’ Review: Big Idea, Small Delivery

The verdict is still out over whether or not bigfoot exists in real life, but in an alternate universe created by Warner Bros. the massive bipedal ape-like creatures not only exist but thrive atop the snowy peaks high above the clouds. It’s humans who are of myth to them. Smallfoot is your typical animated movie for kids complete with flashy visuals, catchy songs, and simple humor. The film won’t dazzle you like the likes of Disney or Pixar, but there are some genuinely heartfelt moments to be had.

Migo (Channing Tatum) and his entire colony of yetis who live at the top of a mountain have spent their entire lives following the “laws” that have been written in hieroglyphics on stone tablets. Growing up, they have been taught not to question the tablets and to take the word of their leader, the Stonekeeper (Common), as truth. One tablet in particular says that the smallfoot aka a human does not exist, but when Migo sees one with his own eyes, he begins to question not just that stone but all the stones. In an effort to to show proof the smallfoot exists, Migo ventures below the clouds to find the mysterious creature he saw.

Smallfoot features the vocal talents of Channing Tatum, James Corden, Zendaya, Dany DeVito, Common, Gina Rodriguez, and even LeBron James. Tatum is the clear standout of the bunch, not just because of his lead role but because he brings an excitement and wonder to his performance that I think kids will latch onto. It’s fun and colorful, but nothing stands out as exceptional.

Both the humor and songs are just okay. They’re good at moving the film forward but are still rather forgettable, especially for adults. The only exception is Common’s song “Let It Lie,” which ends up being the highlight of the entire film. The combination of music and spoken word is something I haven’t seen in an animated kids movie and within the context of the film it worked extremely well. Smallfoot is a fine animated adventure for kids, but adults will quickly get bored with the film. It does have a good overall message about inclusion and not believing everything you hear on blind faith, although it can get lost in its childish humor sometimes. Smallfoot may be big on its idea but small on its delivery.