Pil’s Adventures is an animated film set it he medieval city of Foggyborough. At its heart is a strong, little heroine orphan girl named Pil. She embarks on an adventure with some unlikely friends for a warm underdog makes good, slapstick comedy.
Julien Fournet writes and directs this animated film. It is the third feature from TAT Productions. While the latter does not have the immense resources of Pixar or DreamWorks, what they do provide is one entertaining and quaint story.
This film certainly shares a little in common with Shrek insofar as there is an evil character named Tristain (voiced by Pierre Tessier) a kind of Lord Farquaad who is hellbent on stealing a kingdom. Tristain wants to take this away from the rightful heir, Roland (Gauthier Battoue) who has just come of age. Pil (Kaycie Chase) has snuck into the coronation festivities and witnesses a spell being cast against Roland. This renders the handsome would-be Price into a mystical creature (a cat-chicken hybrid) with the race on to find the antidote.
Pil is an interesting character. She dresses up as a princess to outwit the kind-hearted would-be Knight Crobar (Paul Borne). The pair had met previously when she stole his pies in order to survive. He decided she was little more than a sprite, a wily thief.
A motley crew including Pil’s adopted weasels and a loony court jester band together. What they discover is the family they never had as well as some offbeat situations. Young children will learn about things like honesty and loyalty but they may find the plot a little difficult to follow. At least they can marvel at the colourful characters and scenery, and enjoy the excellent music soundtrack.
Pil’s Adventures is an adorable little film full of mayhem and friendship. It’s not an earth-shatteringly original tale but it is one that will entertain viewers with its magical fantasy world. Plus, there’s a strong female lead who skewers some tired stereotypes. This film is ultimately a smart and fun animation about how a resourceful little girl grows up to find acceptance in one unlikely place
THREE AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Pil’s Adventures is released in Australian cinemas on 2nd June 2022.
