While some people still see animation as a storytelling medium centered around children, that is far from true. Sure, there are some shows and movies that are catered to children, but there are also animated titles not suitable for youngsters at all.
Some of the very best films in animation, however, are the ones that meet in the middle. Many times Pixar and Dreamworks are great at delivering these things with movies like Toy Story, Wall-E, How to Train Your Dragon, and Shrek.
Meanwhile, on the animal side of things, stories like Ice Age and Madagascar have joined the ranks of movies with a balance for all ages, and Riki the Rhino is looking to be the next to find it when Uncork'd releases it on digital and DVD next week.
The official press release reads as follows:
Uncork’d Entertainment has acquired family film RIKI THE RHINO from director Erwin Budiono and featuring the voices of Jennifer Castle, Paul Reynolds, Matt Nipperess, Russell Wait, Nathan Korval, Megan Leung, and Catherine Fu.
The film, to be released on DVD and digital platforms July 5, tells of a young rhinoceros named Riki that has his horn stolen and to get it back, he embarks on an exciting adventure through the rainforest with his friend Beni the duck. Along the way Riki helps other animals in trouble and every time he helps, he is rewarded with a new skill that will help him on his quest.
Riki the Rhino was originally produced in South East Asia in the Indonesian language. For the UK release, the studio brought in Jennifer Castle and Paul Reynolds to voice Riki and Beni, with the script adapted by BAFTA-nominated Tim Clague and Danny Stack.
As well as being great family entertainment, Riki the Rhino has very current themes about natural conservation and it raises awareness about the plight of Sumatran rhinos who’ve been hunted almost to extinction for their horns.
A compelling cast of animalistic characters is one of the main necessities for a movie with such ambition to find success, so you can check that off of the list. Also, you can see the excitement of Uncork'd from the following statement alone, which also lists Over the Hedge as a comparable example.
In addition, Keith Leopard, Uncork'd Entertainment President, added, "What a gorgeous and entertaining animated tale for the summer. The little ones that loved Madagascar and Over the Hedge will no doubt be very keen to see it after they see the trailer”.
What do you guys think? Will you be checking this one out on your own, with the kids, or not at all? Regardless of your thoughts, be sure to sound off in the usual spot!
Come along for the journey of a lifetime.
A young rhinoceros named Riki that has his horn stolen and to get it back, he embarks on an exciting adventure through the rainforest with his friend Beni the duck.
Along the way Riki helps other animals in trouble and every time he helps, he is rewarded with a new skill that will help him on his quest.
Riki the Rhino debuts on VOD and DVD on July 5th.