Disney is no longer the big man on campus in the realm of animation, though it arguably hasn’t been for several decades. You could debate that Pixar took up that position in the intervening years, but considering some of its more recent output, it doesn’t have a strong grip on that position either. With recent critical and audience hits like Spider-Verse, there are no sure bets or formulas anymore and growing and innovating have become just as crucial in animation as any other medium.
Case in point, Netflix’s newest animated flick, Nimona, produced by Annapurna Pictures after, ironically, Disney canceled it only a few years prior. The story, based off the graphic novel of the same name by ND Stevenson, takes place in a vibrant, imaginative futuristic city that simultaneously boasts medieval elements, including knights. The story centers on one, Ballister Boldheart (Oscar-winner Riz Ahmed), accused of a heinous crime who can only clear his name with the help of feisty teenage shapeshifter, the titular Nimona (Chloë Grace Moretz), similarly ostracized and may not be all that she appears.
As unbelievable as this sentiment may be, Nimona poses a genuine threat to Spider-Verse’s title for best animated film of the year. The animation is nothing short of stunning, utilizing a similar 2D aesthetic that pops off the screen in a manner similar to 3D, but is still unique in its own visual style. The world-building instantly captivated me and caught my interest, particularly the amalgamation of futuristic and medieval aspects that manage to meld together into a coherent setting. The idea of sword-wielding knights initially seemed preposterous, but they fit the tone of this society and seem to serve a greater metaphor, showcasing a future in which its people still cling to archaic ideas. I only regret that we didn’t explore this world even further than we already did, as the film hints to far more outer reaching places beyond the walls of the city.
Moretz and Ahmed deliver fantastic performances as the film’s ragtag dynamic duo. Ahmed plays the straight man of the two, grappling with his tragic circumstances and letting go of his former allegiance to the society that has since betrayed him. Moretz, in stark contrast, unleashes a hilarious chaotic energy as Nimona, who has seemingly embraced her status as an outcast with a morbid sense of humor…and revenge against those who wronged her. However, Nimona also has some heartbreaking moments that exhibit a more tender side. Her shapeshifting provides a clear allegory for exploring her identity; while it most closely mirrors gender fluidity, her internal struggle has a beautiful universality to it. When Ballister challenges her to maintain one identity, she rebuffs his request to stay true to herself, firmly telling him that she is just Nimona.
However, I’d be remiss to not mention the debatably strongest performance in the entire film. Eugene Lee Yang portrays the eloquently named Ambrosius Goldenloin, Ballister’s fellow knight and lover. Yang was absolutely born to play this character and delivers his lines in a manner as sophisticated as this character’s hair. Though we don’t explore his backstory in as great of depth, Yang elevates his performance tremendously whenever he’s on screen and convincingly portrays the moral quandary he faces supporting his love and the society that built him up.
The same affection can’t be said for the remainder of the characters. Frances Conroy voices The Director of the program that brought up Bal and Goldenloin as a mere generic authority figure, though that blame lies more with the writing. Bringing up the rear is fellow knight Todd, voiced by Beck Bennett, who exhibits all the worst traits of the asshole comic relief without any of the charm. I’d do anything to replace him with Bumper Allen.
In spite of some lesser elements, Nimona poises such a fantastic and unique animated flick that I presume future ones will eventually take inspiration from, as many did from Spider-Verse, and they will be better for it. The world-building, both conceptually and aesthetically, is nothing short of gorgeous; combined with an emotionally-charged story with some vibrant characters portrayed by incredible talent, Disney, Pixar, and every other studio better take note.
Be sure to check out our video review with Monty and Nicki here!
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