Even though this looks like a live action film, it’s completely animated, with the exception of the real boy who plays Mowgli (Neel Sethi). He’s been raised by a pack of wolves, but must leave his home when they’re threatened by the evil tiger Shere Khan. On his journey, he meets some new animals (most enjoyably Bill Murray as Baloo) and has some perilous adventures. They’ve even tossed in 3 songs from the original film (plus a fun 2nd version of “Bare Necessities” by Dr. John during the credits). As the final frame of the credits states, “This film was shot in downtown Los Angeles,” but the lovely landscapes and slew of creatures is eye-catching and beautifully designed. The action is well-staged and the story comes together with lively energy. Still, it lacks that extra punch that would have made it wondrous and emotionally satisfying (and Sethi’s performance could have been a bit more charming).
(3.5 / 5)