The Nut Job
Directed by Peter Lepeniotis
- animation
- comedy
- family
- adventure
The story
Surly, a curmudgeon, independent squirrel is banished from his park and forced to survive in the city. Lucky for him, he stumbles on the one thing that may be able to save his life, and the rest of park community, as they gear up for winter - Maury's Nut Store.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated computer animation sets a sunny park full of bouncing squirrels, sunlit lawns and glossy piles of nuts, later giving way to a busy city of neon signs and crowded streets. The look is cheerful and slightly chunky, with broad physical gags, lively camera moves and quick cuts that keep the energy up. The score is upbeat and jazzy, with jaunty pop cues, brassy stings and comic sound effects punctuating every chase. The vibe is goofy, bustling and easy, a colourful caper for a Saturday morning or a rainy afternoon when someone wants something lively on in the background. Pacing is brisk and slapstick-driven, with a grumpy loner gradually softening toward his park friends and a band of animals learning to pull together. Intensity is mild: cartoon bonks, bumbling villains and a few tense moments of danger, with no gore and little real cruelty. Made for families with young children and for adults who want a light, undemanding laugh.
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