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Missing Link Blu-ray Review

“Missing Link” is another gem from Laika.

Laika (the studio behind “Coraline,” Paranorman,” “The Boxtrolls,” and “Kubo and the Two Strings”) is back with another stop motion animated feature titled “Missing Link.” The story revolves around an adventurer named Sir Lionel Frost who loves to seek out mythical legends. Alas, he is not taken seriously by his peers in an elite society led by Lord Piggot-Dunceby. In order to be accepted into the society, Frost vows to find the sasquatch. Unbeknownst to Frost, however, Piggot has hired a bounty hunter (Willard Stenk) to eliminate Frost to be rid of him once and for all. Meanwhile, Frost finds and meets the sasquatch (Mr. Link AKA Susan) and wants to help him find his relatives (the Yetis) in the Himalayas. While on their journey, they bump into a woman named Adelina Fortnight who not only has a helpful map, but has a history with Frost. Alas, they have to evade Willard Stenk if they want to reach their destination.

Due to atrocious marketing that did not sell the film accurately at all, “Missing Link” sadly did not find an audience during its theatrical run. Hopefully, that changes on home video as “Missing Link” is an utter delight. Written and directed by Chris Butler, “Missing Link” harkens back to classic adventure films filled with exotic locals, a sense of discovery, character banter, and an arduous journey at the center. This particular adventure, however, is full of heart as it’s all about finding your place, acceptance, and friendship. Of course, the reason the movie is heartfelt is due to the wonderfully constructed characters Mr. Link/Susan, Sir Lionel Frost and Adelina Fortnight. You want to go on a journey with them and you want to see their dynamic.

Speaking of the characters, Zach Galifianakis absolutely crushes it as the sasquatch Mr. Link/Susan. He gives a genuinely sweet and funny performance that had me laughing out loud on several occasions.

Hugh Jackman is great as per usual as the spirited, cocky adventurer with a heart (Sir Lionel Frost). Zoe Saldana also shines here as the brave and smart Adelina. She especially has great chemistry and banter with Jackman.

It should be noted that Laika’s animation work is flat-out stunning. The attention to detail, the elaborate action, and the sheer artistry that goes into every frame never ceases to astound me.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? The vibrant colors and stop motion animation artistry is fully on display with this stand-out Blu-ray transfer.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? From the rousing score to the pitch perfect voice acting, this track delivers.

Extras:
* DVD copy
* Digital copy
* Fox trailers and a “Missing Link” trailer.
* Image gallery
* “Creating Mr. Link”- Writer/director Chris Butler talks about the design of the character.
* “Bringing The Final Battle On The Ice Bridge To Life”- The title speaks for itself.
* “Animation Inspiration”- A side-by-side comparison of art and the final scenes. Optional commentary by Chris Butler also included.
* “VFX Breakdown Reel- Realizing The Potential Of Stop Motion”- A look at how a sequence comes together through various departments.
* “Oh What A Mystery: Pulling The Camera Back On Missing Link’s Magic”- A montage of behind-the-scenes work. Very cool to see sped-up.
* “Making Faces”- A look at various faces made for the production.
* “Inside The Magic Of Laika”- A glimpse into Laika studio and their work.

July 24, 2019 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Animated Film, Hugh Jackman, Laika, Missing Link Blu-ray Review, Sasquatch, stop motion animation, Yeti, Zach Galifianakis, Zoe Saldana