Angelina Jolie Takes on a New Role in Disney’s Hybrid Film
Acclaimed actress Angelina Jolie is set to make a triumphant return to the screen, this time lending her voice to a new Walt Disney Pictures production that combines animation and live-action elements. The film, titled “The One and Only Ivan,” promises to be a treat for fans of this innovative filmmaking approach and an exciting new venture for Jolie’s admirers. Here’s everything we know about this upcoming movie so far.
An Award-Winning Novel Comes to Life
“The One and Only Ivan” is based on a children’s adventure story written by Katherine Applegate and illustrated by Patricia Castelao Perez. Published by Harper Collins in 2012, the book quickly gained popularity and went on to win the prestigious John Newbery Medal. With rave reviews from readers on Goodreads (4.2 out of 5) and Common Sense Media (4 out of 5), as well as a 92% approval rating from Google users, it’s no wonder that this beloved story is being adapted for the big screen.
A Heartwarming Tale Inspired by Real-Life Events
The story of “The One and Only Ivan” is a fictional tale inspired by the true events surrounding a captive gorilla named Ivan. Told from the perspective of the titular character, the story follows Ivan as he spends 27 years imprisoned in a glass cage at a shopping mall. Despite being accustomed to humans gawking at him, Ivan only experiences true privacy when the mall closes for the day. To pass the time, he watches television and creates paintings, all the while befriending two fellow captives: Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog. When a baby elephant named Ruby (voiced by Jolie) arrives at the mall and shares her experiences of life in the wild, Ivan begins to reminisce about his own past in the jungle.
A Film Filled with Variety and Emotion
“The One and Only Ivan” promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions, with lighthearted and entertaining moments juxtaposed against more somber scenes, such as the illness and eventual passing of Ivan’s friend Stella. Each character offers their unique perspective on their lives and current situations, providing viewers with a multifaceted look at the experiences of animals in captivity.
Exploring the Perspectives of Captive Animals
The film delves into the viewpoints of animals taken from their natural habitats and held in captivity for human entertainment. One of the central themes of the story is Ivan’s determination to fulfill a promise he made to Stella before her death: to watch over Ruby and ensure her safety. His ultimate goal is to have Ruby relocated to a zoo, where she can enjoy a more hospitable and homelike environment. The story concludes with Ivan and Ruby adapting to their new surroundings at the zoo, alongside the other resident animals.
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