Jungle Cruise
Movie Trailer
Release Date
July 30, 2021
Genre
Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy
Cast & Crew
- Dwayne Johnson as Frank Wolff
- Emily Blunt as Dr. Lily Houghton
- Jack Whitehall as MacGregor Houghton
- Jesse Plemons as Prince Joachim
- Edgar Ramírez as Aguirre
- Paul Giamatti as Nilo
- Veronica Falcón as Trader Sam
Director
Jaume Collet-Serra
Other Movies Director is Known For
- The Shallows (2016)
- Non-Stop (2014)
- Orphan (2009)
- The Commuter (2018)
Producer
- John Davis
- John Fox
- Beau Flynn
- Dwayne Johnson
- Dany Garcia
- Hiram Garcia
Writer
- Michael Green
- Glenn Ficarra
- John Requa
Budget
$200 million
Production Company
- Walt Disney Pictures
- Davis Entertainment
- Seven Bucks Productions
- Flynn Picture Company
Running Time
127 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG-13
Content Advisory
- Fantasy violence
- Mild language
- Some scary sequences
- Mild thematic elements
Movie Story
Jungle Cruise is a thrilling and humorous adventure film inspired by the famous Disney theme park ride of the same name. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the intrepid Dr. Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt), a determined and resourceful botanist who embarks on a daring expedition to the Amazon jungle. Lily is in search of the legendary Tree of Life, which is said to possess extraordinary healing powers that could revolutionize medicine.
To navigate the perilous waters of the Amazon, Lily hires Frank Wolff (Dwayne Johnson), a witty and rough-around-the-edges riverboat captain with a knack for getting into trouble. Frank operates a rundown but charming boat and is known for his clever scams and knowledge of the river. Despite their initial bickering, Lily and Frank form an unlikely partnership as they venture deeper into the jungle, accompanied by Lily’s fussy but loyal brother, MacGregor (Jack Whitehall).
Their journey is fraught with danger as they encounter treacherous rapids, wild animals, and supernatural forces guarding the secrets of the Amazon. They must also contend with Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons), a nefarious German aristocrat who is determined to find the Tree of Life for his own sinister purposes. As the trio races against time and their formidable adversary, they uncover ancient mysteries and hidden truths that could change the course of history.
The film blends action, humor, and fantasy, with plenty of nods to the classic Disney ride. The dynamic between Frank and Lily drives the narrative, with their banter and chemistry providing both laughs and heart. The story also explores themes of bravery, discovery, and the importance of trust and teamwork.
Special Effects
The special effects in Jungle Cruise are a standout feature, bringing the fantastical elements of the Amazon to life with stunning visuals. The film features elaborate CGI sequences, including the depiction of the mythical Tree of Life, supernatural creatures, and dynamic action scenes on the river. The lush jungle landscapes, dangerous rapids, and mystical elements are all rendered with a high level of detail, immersing viewers in the adventure. The effects work seamlessly with the practical stunts and set pieces, creating a visually rich and engaging experience.
Box Office Performance
Jungle Cruise grossed over $220 million worldwide and was also released simultaneously on Disney+ with Premier Access, where it generated additional revenue. The film performed well at the box office considering the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it received positive reviews from both critics and audiences for its entertainment value, performances, and nostalgic charm.
Filming Locations
- Kaua’i, Hawaii, USA
- Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Notable Quotes
- “Everything you see wants to kill you. And can.” – Frank Wolff
- “The jungle is no place for a woman.” – Frank Wolff
- “You haven’t been out in the jungle long enough. The jungle is not your friend.” – Frank Wolff
Behind-the-Scenes
Jungle Cruise was a passion project for Dwayne Johnson, who not only starred in the film but also served as a producer. The film’s production involved extensive location shooting, particularly in Hawaii, to capture the lush, vibrant look of the Amazon jungle. The chemistry between Johnson and Emily Blunt was a highlight, with the two actors improvising many of their lines to create the film’s witty and playful tone. The movie’s production design and special effects were also a significant focus, as the filmmakers aimed to create a visually immersive and thrilling adventure that paid homage to the beloved Disney attraction.
Awards
- Nominated for the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Movie
- Nominated for the Critics’ Choice Super Award for Best Actor in an Action Movie (Dwayne Johnson)
- Nominated for the Visual Effects Society Award for Outstanding Visual Effects in a Photoreal Feature
Final Verdict
Jungle Cruise is a fun, adventurous romp that successfully captures the spirit of classic action-adventure films. With its blend of humor, fantasy, and excitement, the film is a delightful family-friendly experience. The chemistry between Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt is a standout, driving the film’s engaging narrative and providing plenty of laughs along the way. For fans of Disney’s theme park ride and those looking for a light-hearted, action-packed adventure, Jungle Cruise is a must-watch.
IMDb Rating
6.6/10