Omair Alavi Published January 13, 2018
Ferdinand is not just the story of a strong-looking bull who likes to smell flowers than fight in the ring; it is a story that tells you that being yourself and following your heart will get you anything no matter what others say.
In the latest 3D animated version of the classic The Story of Ferdinand book, written 80 years back, wrestler John lends his voice to the Ferdinand and takes you on a journey you will not forget.
The story goes something like this — Ferdinand (John Cena), the bull, is ‘bullied’ by his friends at a farm from where he runs away when his father doesn’t return from a fight. After spending some quality time with his adopted family, he is returned to the farm and put on selection for a fight against the same bullfighter who downed his dad. Will Ferdinand become the angry bull all expect him to be or will he take another route to escape the fight? The movie will definitely surprise the audience with its unexpected take and beautiful ending, for sure.
The simple story of Ferdinand is made interesting by an array of characters who keep the plot moving. Besides the bull who refuses to engage in a fight, there are ones who would do anything to fight. Old goat Lupe (Kate McKinnon) never stops talking, while the hedgehogs have their own agendas; there are horses who consider themselves superior to others, followed by a blind lady and others. There are comic sequences where kids and parents will laugh aloud, such as the one in the china shop or the one where Ferdinand wreaks havoc in a flower festival.
Ferdinand may not be as emotionally charged as Coco, but it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Technically, it is a fine animated movie that caters to all kinds of viewers and tells you that fighting is not the answer to all your problems and following your heart is the best way to lead your life. It is a story about friendship and understanding your limitations. It is a stepping stone in the right direction for the wrestler-turned-actor John Cena, who breathes life in the character of Ferdinand and comes out with flying colours.
Published in Dawn, Young World, January 13th, 2018
