NEW YORK (OSV News) – In theory, the tale of a shy but enthusiastic high schooler who is really a sea creature rather than a human might make for a pleasant diversion. But the major feminist and minor gay agendas that underlie the animated adventure “Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken” (Universal) spoil any potential fun the film might offer.
Krakens, so the opening narrative informs us, are a misunderstood lot. Far from being the monstrous threat to shipping and sailors they have long been reputed to be, they are, in fact, guardians of good order in the depths.
Why, then, has the titular character’s caring mother, Agatha (voice of Toni Collette), decided that she (voice of Lana Condor), her energetic little brother, Sam (voice of Blue Chapman), and amiable dad, Arthur (voiced by Colman Domingo), should all live on dry land and pose as people? It’s not initially clear.
Not only has Ruby been raised on terra firma, she’s also been taught to fear any contact with the ocean. But when Connor (voice of Jaboukie Young-White), the skateboarding fellow student Ruby would like to make her boyfriend, almost drowns in an accident, she reluctantly takes the plunge to save him.
As a result, Ruby discovers the wondrous world beneath the waves and learns that her estranged grandmother, known regally as Grandmahmah (voice of Jane Fonda), is its monarch. She also breaks precedent by befriending Chelsea (voice of Annie Murphy), a mermaid and therefore a traditional enemy of Krakenkind.
Together, the lasses ostensibly hope to bring about a reconciliation between their once-warring, still adversarial tribes. But all is not as it seems to naive Ruby.
As scripted by Pam Brady, Brian C. Brown and Elliott DiGuiseppi, and helmed by Kirk DeMicco and co-director Faryn Pearl, the movie sends mixed signals about whether kids should trust their parents. Thus, although her maternal caution is, in some respects, ultimately vindicated, Agatha is portrayed as overly fond of familial secrets.
Less ambiguous is the fact that female krakens are gigantic, gleaming and powerful while their male counterparts are puny and impotent. One of Ruby’s closest pals, Margot (voice of Liza Koshy), moreover, is a lesbian who takes a girl to the prom and sports a rainbow-flag bowtie.
Grown-ups concerned that their children will be manipulated by such item ticking would be wise to be wary. Unsuitable for the youngsters at whom it’s aimed, “Kraken” – while occasionally funny and visually vivid – will likely bore their elders.
The film contains stylized cartoon combat, a benign view of homosexual relationships and mature references. The OSV News classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.
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