IR Film Review: MIGRATION [Illumination/Universal]

"Migration" has a sense of itself without getting too lost in its own trevails. This might be the writing of Mike White which is an interesting choice but definitely reflects in every character having both their own argument and point of view without being grating. Kumail Nanjiani as Mack works because even in his cowardice which transforms throughout the movie, he does care for his kids. Elizabeth Banks as his partner mallard Pam gets it right too. The movie never strays too dark but also keeps a little bit of the darkness in play but only if one wants to see it. However, it never stays in play to long before bringing some silliness or fun out. A scene inside a apartment and then kitchen of a restaurant could get intense (and does give a bit of a darker Ratotouille feel) but the ending of it is very story specific and sweet so the progression makes sense.

This also works with the kids Dax (Casper Jennings) and Gwen (Tresi Gazal) whose personalities are both awkward, fun and hearfelt. Dax captures that teenager feeling but also with a sense of growth without being irritating while Gwen has the cuteness but also that unconditional love to her brother even when she can hate him at the same time. Danny DeVito plauys Uncle Dan to give just that little bit of cool and nihilistic vibe while still being proud and helpful at certain times. Carol Kane as a heron named Erin provides a nice side episode (and an impromtu "Taxi" reunion). I kept thinking the husband in her nest who didn't talk would be Andy Kaufman.

Awkwafina as Chump, a hardline pigeon with a heart of gold steals every scene she is in (and fits much better than in Renfield where she seemed to be in a different movie). The climax of "Migration" again plays to certain tropes but is well written. A toothpicks joke is fantastic at the end and perfectly in keeping with Illumination's MO. On top of that, the film was proceeded by a would-be Minions short called "Mooned" which was better than "Migration"itself which is a feat because the film itself was well done. But "Mooned" totally captured the Tex Avery feel within the Illumination identity in a compressed space. That said, "Migration" is great holiday fare, well written and executed with something for everyone. "Migration": A- "Mooned" Short: A

By Tim Wassberg