It’s been years since we had a big 2D animated film releasing in theaters, we all missed the experience of heading to a cinema and watching the good old nostalgic 2D animation. Surprisingly, Warner Bros. decided to release a 2D animated Looney Tunes film. And let’s be honest, that’s really surprising when considering this same studio shelved a completed film based on the same franchise… But the really question is: Is The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie really worth the wait and the ticket? The short a ser is yes but maybe no? Let’s dig deeper into it and talk about why this film is not for everyone.
Porky and Daffy, the classic animated odd couple, turn into unlikely heroes when their antics at the local bubble gum factory uncover a secret alien mind control plot. Against all odds, the two are determined to save their town (and the world!)…that is if they don’t drive each other crazy in the process.
A good thing about this film is that it never tries not to be what it must: a kids movie. This IS a kids film yet will also delight old fans of this beloved characters. I have always been a huge fan of the Looney Tunes and I thought this film was a fun watch but at the same time extremely generic story-wise. The plot is always predictable and sometimes kind of lazy, which don’t get me wrong it’s a kids movie I know they don’t want to get it too complicated for the young audience. I just felt like it could’ve delivered more from this universe. It is a good film and I think it’ll be loved by most due to its huge heart and great references. Even with the Looney Tunes name on the title, I must remind you that this is a Porky and Daffy story, you will not see any other character from this universe besides these two. They’re the center of this story and their relation is quite literally the best thing about this whole film.
We follow Daffy and Porky basically growing up together and learning how to coexist even with both of them being completely different from each other. They don’t act nor look alike, so there will always be conflicts and disagreements that will be important for the course of the plot. Visually, this film is phenomenal, the whole esthetic of it it’s amazing. Lots of references to old 1950s sci-fi films and moments that will probably have the little kids scared for their lives. The perfomances are great and it’s just such a nostalgic adventure that you really don’t want to miss. It’s adorable, heartwarming and even with the weak story, it will entertain you.
Another issue for me, besides the plot, was the villain, I think he was there just to be there, his motivations are actually the dumbest thing ever and just didn’t really work for me, at all. I’m trying not to give away any spoilers, but let’s just say things are not the way you think they are, it’s actually slightly worse. Just watch it for yourself and you’ll understand. But really, those are minor issues that will probably not affect most of the audiences. It’s a film that will definitely leave some people in the theater tearing up, I’m telling you, when these two get together, it’s just perfection.
It’s safe to say that this film is an achievement for the studio and for the medium, I’m really grateful for Warner Bros. to put this out and let the world see that 2D animation still exists and I hope audiences show this movie the love it deserves. The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie has a weak plot but it still manages to be an extremely cute, nostalgic, and enjoyable adventure that will have you tearing up by the end of it. Don’t miss this one! And on the big screen!
The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie releases in theaters soon.
