I’m honestly surprised that 70 years after their first publication the Moomins have only just arrived on the big screen in their first feature film.
Directed by Xavier Picard, Moomins on the Riviera is a lovely tribute to one of the essential classics of children’s literature.
Originally developed for a series of children’s books and comics by Finnish illustrator Tove Jansson, the Moomins are a family of chubby white creatures (definitely not hippopotami, as the father insists) from Moominvalley who live a simple “bohemian” life. When Snorkmaiden (Céline Ronté) begins to idolise the movie stars of her magazines however, the family make the perilous journey over the seas to the French Riviera.
Moomins on the Riviera is a critique of the over-glamorised life of the wealthy elite, as well as a charming little adventure tale to take the kids to. The Moomins are simple folk, optimistic almost to the point of delusion. The snooty actors and royalty of the Riviera don’t seem to take too kindly to these bumbling characters who want nothing more than to plant flowers and flood the hotel’s “Royal Suite” bathroom for a bit of fun. This conflict of ideals is what drives most of this short flick, allowing for many innocent laughs.
This film holds on proudly to the fact that it is hand drawn. In a world where most cartoons are now produced on computers, it is nice to see something that bears the hallmarks of traditional animation. That’s not to diminish computer generated cartoons, as they can be just as powerful, but there is a certain sense of “soul” that you can only get from hand drawn films which often display their warts and all. It also harks back to the original comic strips, actually matching the style with a fair degree of accuracy.
Despite my affection for the imperfections, I do admit that there are times when this movie just seems a bit unfinished. While the backgrounds and colour palettes used in each scene are magnificent, the characters themselves often end up seeming a bit lifeless and artificial. Though I suppose there’s not much you can do to show the emotions of characters with almost no facial features.
The highlight of this film, and perhaps the Moomins series in general, is the vast array of entertaining, unique and charming characters. From a small dog that only likes the company of cats, to a tiny redheaded girl with a mischievous streak a mile wide, this world’s characters are all expertly designed and full of heart.
Despite some fairly glaring flaws, Moomins on the Riviera will likely entertain family members of all ages with its gorgeous style, and its loveable characters.
Moomins on the Riviera screens again on 21 March 2015 as part of the Alliance Française Film Festival.
Reviewed by James Rudd
Twitter: @james_wrr
Rating out of 10: 5
The Alliance Française French Film Festival runs from 5 – 24 March 2015 exclusively at the Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas.
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