The One and Only Ivan

Movie Trailer

Release Date
August 21, 2020

Genre
Family, Drama, Fantasy

Cast & Crew

• Sam Rockwell as the voice of Ivan
• Angelina Jolie as the voice of Stella
• Danny DeVito as the voice of Bob
• Helen Mirren as the voice of Snickers
• Bryan Cranston as Mack
• Brooklynn Prince as the voice of Ruby

Director
Thea Sharrock

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Me Before You (2016)

Producer
Angelina Jolie, Allison Shearmur, Brigham Taylor

Writer
Mike White (Screenplay), based on the novel by Katherine Applegate

Budget
$50 million (estimated)

Production Company
Walt Disney Pictures, Jolie Pas Productions, Allison Shearmur Productions

Running Time
95 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
PG

Content Advisory

• Mild peril
• Emotional themes

Movie Story
The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming family film that tells the story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives in captivity at the Big Top Mall, where he is the star attraction of a circus run by Mack, the mall’s owner. Ivan has spent most of his life in this makeshift zoo, performing daily for the mall’s visitors. Despite his tough exterior, Ivan has a gentle soul and a deep connection with the other animals, including Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog.

The story takes a turn when Ruby, a baby elephant, is brought to the mall. Ruby’s innocence and curiosity stir something in Ivan, prompting him to reflect on his own life and the conditions in which they all live. With the help of his artistic talent, Ivan begins to create drawings that eventually reveal his longing for freedom and a better life for himself and his friends.

As Ivan becomes increasingly aware of the possibility of a life beyond the mall, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and courage. He decides to stand up for Ruby and the other animals, striving to give them the freedom they deserve. The film beautifully explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the bond between humans and animals, all while highlighting the importance of compassion and standing up for what is right.

Bryan Cranston delivers a touching performance as Mack, the complex and conflicted owner of the circus. The voice cast, led by Sam Rockwell as Ivan, brings depth and emotion to the animal characters, making them relatable and endearing. The film’s narrative is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, making it a perfect family movie that appeals to viewers of all ages.

Special Effects
The film’s special effects are impressive, particularly in the realistic CGI used to bring the animal characters to life. Ivan, Stella, and the other animals are rendered with detailed expressions and movements, allowing them to convey a wide range of emotions. The visual effects team successfully blends these CGI characters with live-action environments, creating a seamless and immersive experience that enhances the film’s storytelling.

Box Office Performance
The One and Only Ivan was originally intended for a theatrical release, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was released directly on Disney+. The film was well-received by audiences and critics, who praised its heartfelt story and strong performances. It quickly became popular on the streaming platform, particularly among families and fans of the original novel.

Filming Locations

• Lakeland, Florida, USA
• Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, England, UK

Notable Quotes

• “Memories are precious… they help tell us who we are.” – Ivan
• “Humans waste words. They toss them like banana peels and leave them to rot.” – Ivan

Behind-the-Scenes
The One and Only Ivan is based on the Newbery Medal-winning book by Katherine Applegate, which was inspired by the true story of a real-life gorilla named Ivan who lived in captivity for 27 years. The film adaptation stays true to the spirit of the book, with a focus on the emotional journey of the characters. The filmmakers worked closely with animal behavior experts to ensure the accuracy of the animals’ portrayals, both in their physical movements and emotional expressions.

Awards

• Nominated for Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature at the 2021 Visual Effects Society Awards
• Nominated for Best Original Song (“Free”) at the 2021 Hollywood Music In Media Awards (HMMA)

Final Verdict
The One and Only Ivan is a touching and visually stunning film that delivers a powerful message about freedom, compassion, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. With its engaging story, strong performances, and impressive special effects, it’s a must-watch for families and fans of heartfelt animal stories. The film’s themes are universal, making it an enjoyable and meaningful experience for viewers of all ages.

IMDb Rating
6.7/10