The Willoughbys
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Willoughbys
The Willoughbys is a 2020 animated comedy film produced by Netflix Animation, directed by Kris Pearn, and based on the book by Lois Lowry. The story follows the four neglected Willoughby children – Tim, Jane, and the Barnaby twins – who are desperate to be rid of their self-centered parents. They devise a perilous 'vacation' for their parents, hoping to become orphans. Their plans take an unexpected turn with the arrival of a kindhearted nanny and an abandoned baby, leading the siblings on an adventure to discover the true meaning of family. The film is celebrated for its unique animation style, comedic tone, and exploration of themes such as family, love, and finding belonging outside of biological ties. It is generally aimed at a family audience, though it contains dark humor and mature themes of parental neglect that may be more suitable for older children.
Things to Consider
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect and rebellion are central to the film's plot, as the neglected Willoughby children actively conspire to get rid of their parents and run their own lives. They defy authority figures (their parents) through various schemes and express a strong desire to be free of them.
1. The entire premise revolves around the Willoughby children creating a dangerous 'vacation' brochure to send their parents away, explicitly hoping they will die so the children can become orphans. 2. The children destroy family heirlooms and booby-trap their home with devices like electric shocks and catapults to prevent new buyers, demonstrating extreme defiance and disregard for property and authority.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
The Willoughbys is best suited for children aged 8 and above, with parental guidance recommended for those between 8 and 12 years. While rated PG and featuring whimsical animation, the film's central themes of extreme parental neglect, abandonment, and the children's attempts to 'orphan themselves' can be disturbing and may require discussion. Younger children might find the dark humor, implied dangers, and cartoon violence unsettling, despite its often comedic presentation. The movie also subtly addresses diverse family structures and gender identity, which parents may wish to discuss.
Good to Know
The overall tone of 'The Willoughbys' is dark comedy, which uses exaggeration to highlight themes of family dysfunction and neglect. While the animated style is whimsical, the emotional depth of the children's suffering and their desperate measures might be intense for sensitive viewers. The film ultimately delivers a message about chosen family and the importance of love and care.
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