Something’s…missing. Three years since their last feature, Laika Studios is returning to theaters with “Missing Link,” their fifth theatrical feature. Laika has been known for using their distinct, stop-motion animation style to set them apart from other studios. They’ve consistently delivered groundbreaking, stunning films, though this time the emotional heft is absent from the storyline.
“Missing Link” finds its protagonist, Sir Lionel Frost (Hugh Jackman), hellbent on claiming his place in the “Society of Great Men,” desperately searching for evidence of the world’s long-lost beasts. A mysterious note leads him to venture to the Pacific Northwest in search of the fabled Missing Link, (Zach Galifianakis), who needs help finding his extended family.
It must be declared that Laika is doing the most in stop-motion animation. Each set is brilliantly detailed and constructed, with some of the most stunning sets only being shown a few seconds each. Giant fallen trees, beautiful mountains, and busy London streets are only the tip of the production-designed iceberg. The sets give a colorful sense of whimsy that makes the whole film feel like it’s wrapped up in a storybook. Where most of Laika’s previous films have a darker color palette, this film isn’t afraid to take a lighter tone when detailing the thrills of adventure. The voice cast assembled is certainly reflective of the film’s eccentrically modeled characters. Zoe Saldana, Timothy Olyphant, Stephen Fry, and Emma Thompson are among the voices provided for generic friends, foes, and beasts alike.
However, one can’t help but feel that something here is…well…missing. (Pun not intended.) The script, written by Laika veteran Chris Butler, manages to capture the thrilling sense of adventure the film requires. However, the film kind of putters along, never truly raising the stakes for any of the characters. The jokes often default to making fun of the titular characters, the gags never manage to land if repeated, and worst of all, this film lacks the genuine, unforced emotion that Laika’s other films had in spades. Even though we know where this film will go, there are no surprising moments along the way. If anything, the script comes across as preaching a “be nice” lesson to its younger viewers. In the end, the film suffers from the weak script, which no amount of beautiful animation can fix.
Despite shortcomings, “Missing Link” deserves praise for its continued progression of Laika’s beautiful animation style. It also serves as a warning that the company cannot rely on animation alone to sell their features. If they want another success akin to “Coraline” or “Kubo and the Two Strings,” they must be sure the writing is up to par before launching into production.
“Missing Link” is available to stream on Hulu.
Grade 5.9/10
Reel Talk 