The strongest element in Duck Duck Goose is its animation. Chinese animator Original Force employs some decent environmental realism set in the Chinese countryside and portrays the ducklings in a generically cute manner, especially the grumpy runt Chao.
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If you’re looking for a serviceable animated film for kids that straddles the line between cringe and charm, Duck Duck Goose may be it. An American-Chinese production from the same folks behind Shrek, the story tells of orphaned ducklings Chi (Zendaya of The Greatest Showman fame) and Chao (Lance Lim)’s journey back to their flock, together with their larger guardian Peng (Jim Gaffigan).
The strongest element in Duck Duck Goose is its animation. Chinese animator Original Force employs some decent environmental realism set in the Chinese countryside and portrays the ducklings in a generically cute manner, especially the grumpy runt Chao.
Plot is where the film stumbles. Peng is the hesitant, unsure lead thrust into an unfamiliar journey. Chi shines through Zendaya’s rambunctious, lively performance. However, the weary sense is that the story isn’t new, and the gags are tired and slightly uninspired – just watch out for the farting sounds, for example.
Yet the film does also contain a decent family message about recognising one’s limitations, unconditional love and working together as a team, which is as wholesome as it gets. If you’re looking for 85 minutes of passable family fun with cute ducklings, this is it.
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