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The One and Only Ivan
U (INDIA)
2021
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The One and Only Ivan
Positive Reviews
70
Negative reviews
26
Average Rating
3.2
/5
entertaining
original
emotional
cinematic
altruistic
All
Positive
Negative
3.0
The films attempts to blend family friendly humor with the plight of the animals doesnt land, and its hard to gauge exactly what it wants to say until ..
EW
2.5
Its certainly harmless enough if you already have a Disney+ subscription, but its far from the greatest show on Earth.
Rogerebert
4.0
The live action cast is well served by Cranston, whose Mack is generally a good man but cant see that even a safe cage isnt also a happy home.
Common Sense Media
3.0
Thea Sharrocks touching take on Katherine Applegates childrens book gracefully weaves together the obvious (cute talking animals) with some headier id ..
Indie Wire
4.5
I dont want to overstate the films virtues; its no Bambi or Dumbo.
Variety
2.0
A reliable ace is Sharrocks deftly picked cast, a reminder yet again of Disneys ability to look beyond star power to find distinctive, well matched vo ..
The Guardian
2.5
The charitable representation of Bryan Cranstons character greatly diminishes the emotional resonance of the films dramatic turns in the final act.
4.5
For all the films emotional maturity, theres still a fair share of juvenile humour and jokey supporting characters.
Screen Daily
4.5
Both in the plotting and production, The One and Only Ivan makes a series of intriguing choices that elevate it beyond your average afternoon family p ..
Collider
1.5
The film never spills over into pathos thanks to the measured direction of Thea Sharrock (2016 romantic drama Me Before You) and the thoughtful perfor ..
The Hollywood Reporter
1.5
The One and Only Ivan... brings a fair amount of heart to a generic story line.
The New York Times
1.5
Varda was a truly extraordinary artist whose output deserves an equally extraordinary treatment and that is exactly what Criterion has given us here. ..
E Film Critic
3.5
While there a couple of odd quirks to The One And Only Ivan, in the end the emotional moments still hit you like a ton of bricks.
Cinema Blend
2.5
The One and Only Ivan has a good heart at the center of this mediocre animal tale, which never quite delivers on the requisite Disney magic.
Screen Rant
3.8
One that, in its tenderness and sincerity, serves as a dispiriting reminder of just how crassly most contemporary family films are engineered.
The Globe And Mail
2.5
But without the warmth and wit of a good script for them to act in, life like isnt enough.
Rogers Movie Nation
3.0
Technically impressive, offering a lovely voice cast and excellent CGI, but as an offering of heart, the film remains cold to the touch.
Blu Ray
3.8
It becomes Ivans story in a way thats rather startling, if only because the filmmakers havent stopped at the work put into making the digital gorilla ..
Mark Reviews Movies
2.0
If Stellas Not all humans are bad. They can surprise you, wilts under the slavery allegory, it fits right in with the animal rights concept that Ivan ..
2.5
Its cute and heartfelt at times, though the adventure by director Thea Sharrock (Me Before You) cant decide between being a fun filled romp or an anim ..
Usa Today
3.0
Its heart is very much in the right place and the movie does get its points across clear enough, but it does seem like there was more to mine, especia ..
You Tube
3.5
The most Disney ish movie from Disney in a decade. Good family entertainment.
You Tube
4.5
At first it seems like this movie is for pre schoolers, but its actually quite sophisticated. Originally slated for theaters, this is a big win for Di ..
You Tube
2.0
The jokes arent great, but Dyer happens to excel at those pained stares: she gets a lot of comic mileage from wide eyes and a chewed lower lip.
The Times
3.0
Ivan may be the one and only, but this cuddly blend of Dumbo and Born Free feels far from unique.
The Times
3.0
The One and Only Ivan may prove too melancholic for young kids, but the animals inspire awe, and the film draws winningly on Disney classics like Dumb ..
Radio Times
4.5
Thankfully that doesnt get too preachy, heavy handed, or depressing, with some of the darker moments lightened by the ever present comic relief provid ..
Screen It
3.0
A few clumsy jokes aside, including an extended bit on chickens crossing roads, theres much to admire about The One and Only Ivan.
Independent
2.5
Anthropomorphizing animals can be a trap, one that The One and Only Ivan doesnt always avoid.
Rolling Stone
3.5
His low key personal journey is properly moving, and hes surrounded by scene stealers like DeVitos scrappy mutt, Mirrens pampered poodle, Khans harebr ..
Shadows On The Wall
1.5
Its a calm, sweet, tender story thats bereft of violence, high volume crudity and most other cynical condescensions of the kiddie genre.
Decider
4.5
That sadness is perhaps not a tone thatll be appreciated by younger viewers who came for the talking animals, but its one that gives the film more nua ..
The Wrap
2.5
The One and Only Ivan goes overboard in patting its young audience on the head by remaining much too calm and soothing, like an on screen lullaby.
New York Post
1.5
The One and Only Ivan might be a little dour for children during quarantine, especially if theyre expecting a lighthearted film about talking animals, ..
Hindustan Times
4.5
This expertly tear jerking Disney movie seamlessly combines human actors with expressive CGI animals, and even manages a happy ending out of a horribl ..
Smh
4.5
But anyone might appreciate the sly intelligence it flexes alongside its tearjerker machinery.
Salon
3.0
Reminiscent of Charlottes Web, its a touching, tender tale for tiny tots...
Susang Ranger
2.5
In a movie that runneth over with squandered talent, this one hurts the most.
Observer
4.5
From its charming story to the talented voice actors, the film is surprisingly enjoyable.
Flickering Myth
3.5
The messages it propounds the ills of an anthropocentric worldview, compassion towards our fellow living organisms, and so on may be old, but the film ..
The New Indian Express
3.1
Its alternately sappy, peppy, and uplifting. The temptation to watch with the sound off is considerable, though that would do a disservice to the tale ..
Boston Globe
2.0
Glossy visuals, photorealistic CG animals, and a schmaltzy score fail to produce even a synthetic lift.
The Irish Times
2.0
Too often, however, it feels like a rehash of other, better films, and theres not enough that sets The One and Only Ivan apart.
Detroit News
3.8
That it lacks the more engaging theatrics of, say, Dumbo, or the great Chicken Run isnt necessarily an out and out criticism.
1.5
Its all played so broadly that the film simply lurches loudly from one mundane action scene to the next.
Cnn
1.9
That transition feels forced, ensuring that we dont believe Ivans journey.
Aisle Seat
3.0
Unlike the hideous Artemis Fowl, this is a competently made film, but base level competence isnt the equivalent of genuine entertainment.
Consequence Of Sound
3.0
It is not ground breaking cinema, the comedy and emotionality are exactly what youd expect.
Hey U Guys
2.0
Its got a litter of poop jokes and isnt shy about manipulating your emotions.
The Play List
4.5
Its not going to change your life but it is worth a watch with the family
You Tube
1.5
It has admirable qualities and intentions, but it lacks depth and entertainment value.
You Tube
4.0
A tremendously charming and cinematic film, with great characters, wonderful performers and a touching, feel good adventure, that is marks above prett ..
You Tube
1.0
Watching The One and Only Ivan may well make you dream of escape, but not in the way the makers intended.
Ft
3.0
The One and Only Ivan feels like a case of, its an okay movie, but If Only...
Stuff
3.8
There are times the family friendly slapstick comedy and heavy messaging about the heartbreak of animals in tight, dark, cold captivity dont exactly m ..
Chicago Sun Times
3.0
For 85 minutes, theres a tense situation presented, yet the film doesnt quite register as genuinely terrifying.
We Live Entertainment
4.5
In fact, this is the best live action talking animal picture since that classic came our way a quarter century ago.
Dead Line
1.5
Though the plot beats of The One and Only Ivan are predictable, given that its a story about sad caged animals, theres enough genuine emotion threaded ..
Polygon
2.5
Its the most melancholy note in a film thats always happier being downbeat than forcing its talking animals to be wacky comic figures, and certainly t ..
Alternate Ending
4.0
Even the reminder that humanity isnt lost (Not all humans are bad) feels deeply reassuring in dark times.
Fresh Fiction
2.5
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National Post
2.5
The director and writer do introduce plot twists that are not in the book, but they should have gone further. They soften bits of it, with the younger ..
The Australian
4.0
I can tell why this was originally intended for theaters; its strong storytelling with that classic Disney feel thats way too good for the platform.
Rendy Reviews
2.0
We sympathize with him untilwe dont Even the most photoreal CGI with supreme skill, create with an extraordinarily meticulous understanding of movemen ..
Movie Mom
1.3
His special skill is scaring kids with King Kong like roars, but hes really a softy.
Datebook Sfchronicle
4.5
Bryan Cranston and Danny DeVito steal the show and warm our heart all at once with this unusual tale of an Artisitc strip mall circus gorilla. Perfect ..
Wp Me
4.5
Despite its refusal to engage in any significant discourse about the treatment of animals being held in captivity, as well as the fairly flat filmmaki ..
Culture
3.0
The One and Only Ivan tries to do a lot probably too much, really. However, it is so sincere in its efforts that it works...What kind of movie does a ..
3.0
As it goes, the shopping center has taken a financial hit, and Ivans crew of misfits doesnt attract the audiences they used too.
The Only Critic
1.5
But hes really a gentle giant, whos growing tired of the whole angry gorilla act.
Firstpost
1.5
Screenwriter Mike White just simply doesnt take the story as seriously as he should have.
Battle Royale With Cheese
4.4
It shamelessly tugs at your heartstrings, and while you know youre being manipulated, theres no way to distance yourself from its machinations.
Illinois Times
1.5
Mack doesnt have a moment where he realizes the animals would be happier free.
The Spool
3.1
Much of this film is lightly charming and will delight kids. Adults, however, may find some of the narrative shortcuts frustrating for an otherwise qu ..
Hollywood News
3.0
Sweet and touching, The One and Only Ivan does enough to ensure profound enjoyment from the whole family.
3.0
The One and Only Ivan isnt a particularly original tale featuring talking animals with celebrity voices, but what the film lacks in originality it mor ..
FanboyNation.com
4.0
Of course, dont be surprised if you shed a tear or two as well (I admit, I did).
FlickDirect
4.5
Thea Sharrocks direction is light and gentle, and wrings every drop of sentiment out of Mike Whites script for something that may not necessarily be e ..
Entertainment Ie
2.5
The One And Only Ivan is quietly affecting, with unexpected nuance around human frailties. Unfortunately while it admirably dodges over earnestness, a ..
Caution Spoilers
2.5
Director Derrick Borte (American Dreamer) and screenwriter Carl Ellsworth (Disturbia) will have you believe thats where theyre headed.
Sa Current
4.0
The screenplay doesnt completely excuse the negatives around Macks decision to house a menagerie of exotic animals in captivity, but it doesnt seek to ..
The Jam Report
4.0
As you might imagine, a mall circus doesnt always bring in a lot of money.
Mama's Geeky
3.5
CGI talking animals, a cute kid, and ringmaster Bryan Cranston keep things moving along in this entertaining diversion.
Movie Reviews Cinemaclips
2.0
This fun for all ages mandate is a bit of a hurdle for The One and Only Ivan, Disneys big streaming release of the weekend, since its a film that want ..
Ready Steady Cut
4.5
Shes unapologetically made a childrens movie, and one with a gentle tone.
About Boulder
3.5
Thats certainly an appeal for having a tale like Ivans translated from Applegates book into this mash up of CGI animals in a live action setting.
Elements of Madness
3.0
The One and Only Ivan may not have hit all the right notes for me, but it was a solid attempt at trying to convey a beautiful and important message.
3.1
Give The One and Only Ivan credit for trying to bridge Dumbo with Blackfish.
Charlotte Observer
4.5
The film is captivating enough, and then it shows some art and footage of the real Ivan which only makes the viewer more fascinated to learn more abou ..
Showbiz Cheat Sheet
4.3
The idea of adapting that into a book and then a movie about talking animals very much makes sense, and the film we get on screen is fun to watch even ..
4.5
Though the film is firmly on the side of the animals, it doesnt dig too deep into the ethics of caging wild creatures.
CultureMap
3.5
A tragic past is hinted at, but he doesnt get chance to fully explore that, despite still delivering one of his reliably excellent performances.
ComicBookMovie.com
3.0
The movie can stand proud for doing its source inspiration justice in a softly affecting and entertaining way.
Every Movie Hasalesson
4.4
An unexpectedly moving construct of modern movie magic and old fashioned sincerity.
Reel Talk with Chuck and P ..
3.0
It could be argued that theres nothing desperately original about it, but Ivan is charming and entertaining nonetheless, and features enjoyable voice ..
Movies 4 Kids
2.0
Its obnoxiously silly, childish, passable and ridiculously predictable.
3.0
with all the nuances that a film for all audiences allows... thanks to its director, Thea Sharrock.
4.0
Russel Crowe is fantastic as a raged driver and if anything this film will make you think twice about honking at a total stranger!
DC Film Girl
3.5
Shes less than excited about having to care for the boy and Frank isnt pleased either.
Richard Crouse
4.4
This heartfelt story hooked me from the beginning thanks to the CGI/animation of all the animals and a cast with voices to give the non human characte ..
Reel Honestre Views
4.5
The sanctity of precious animals, the heartwarming tale of the preciousness of animals and a classic Diane Warren song, make for a classic Disney film ..
Showbiz 411
2.0
But once you are into the meat of the story, the film converts into an interesting and thoughtful family film with a simple yet effective message and ..
Crunch On This
4.0
Perhaps its the simplicity that made me appreciate The One and Only Ivan. No gimmicks or smoke shows. Character development can be lacking, but the he ..
Lola Lambchops
3.5
An old fashioned, sweet, feel good movie that works for kids and also adults who love animals. The script left sloppy loose ends, but the always amazi ..
1.5
Disneys flavorless charm spread on a flavorless ceiling tile of passable family entertainment.
Critically Ac Claimed
2.5
I feel like its only appropriate to warn parents of small children that this isnt a light film.
We Have a Hulk
3.8
This is a great family film for all to enjoy and appreciate its message.
Sarahs Back Stage Pass
3.0
The offbeat approach to this tale about the conflict between altruistic science and unbridled capitalism doesnt quite generate the electricity it had ..
KKFI-FM (Kansas City)
3.0
But theres admirable charm in the voice performances throughout, with the CGI rendering of the characters accomplished with considerable flair.
FILMHOUNDS Magazine
1.5
Costume Design: There isnt a lot of flashy costume work for designer Jill Taylor (My Week with Marilyn) in this one, other than Macks stage attire as ..
Below the Line
See Where to Watch
The One and Only Ivan