Jungle Cruise (2021) – Adventure and magic in classic Disney style

Jungle Cruise It is an adventure, fantasy and comedy film released by Disney in July 2021. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt, the film is inspired by one of the most iconic attractions of the Disney theme parks of the same name.

Following the tradition of other attraction adaptations (such as Pirates of the Caribbean), Jungle Cruise offers a completely original story set in the Amazon rainforest, full of action, humor, romance, and supernatural elements. The film pays homage to classics such as Indiana Jones, The Mummy and Romancing the Stone, but with the familiar and visual seal characteristic of Disney.

Synopsis

In the midst of World War I, the intrepid scientist Dr. Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt) travels from London to Brazil in the hopes of finding a mystical flower called “Tear of the Moon”, which, according to legend, has healing properties capable of revolutionizing modern medicine.

Accompanied by her brother MacGregor (Jack Whitehall), Lily hires the services of Frank Wolff (Dwayne Johnson), a charismatic and somewhat mischievous boat captain who offers tours of the Amazon. Frank, though skeptical of the legend, accepts the mission, attracted by the money and adventure.

Together, they embark on a dangerous journey through the jungle, facing natural traps, supernatural creatures, already human enemies like the arrogant Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons), a German nobleman who also seeks the flower for military purposes.

During the journey, Lily and Frank not only discover secrets of the Amazon, but also the true story behind the curse that weighs on the river and on Frank himself, who is not what he seems…

Cast

• Dwayne Johnson as Frank Wolff: A sarcastic and courageous ship captain with a mysterious past. He brings action, physical strength, and charisma to the story.
• Emily Blunt as Dr. Lily Houghton: A determined, intelligent, and bold scientist, in search of a discovery that challenges the rules imposed by a male-dominated society.
• Jack Whitehall as MacGregor HoughtonLily's eccentric and stylish brother provides constant comic relief and stars as one of the first LGBTQ+ characters in a Disney film in a central role.
• Jesse Plemons as Prince Joachim: A cartoonish villain, obsessed with finding the flower to take over the world. His exaggeration is intentionally comical.
• Edgar Ramirez as Aguirre: A cursed Spanish conquistador who returns from the dead as one of the supernatural antagonists. His visual design is one of the most striking.
• Paul Giamatti as Nile: A corrupt businessman who controls part of the port where Frank operates.

Reviews

The criticism was moderately positiveThe film was praised for its lighthearted tone, charismatic performances, and stunning visuals, though it received criticism for its predictable script and reliance on familiar formulas.

Positive highlights:

• Leading duo with chemistryThe dynamic between Johnson and Blunt was praised for its humor, energy, and balance of action and emotion.
• Classic adventure styleThe film revives the spirit of the films of the 1980s and 1990s, with explorations, puzzles, myths, and curses.
• Ambitious production design: The jungle, magic effects and creatures are well done.
• Progressive messageLily challenges traditional gender roles, and MacGregor represents LGBTQ+ visibility with respect.

Common negative reviews:

• Predictable story: Many twists are expected, and the film feels like a mishmash of previously seen elements.
• Cartoonish villains: Although Jesse Plemons gives a fun performance, some consider him unthreatening.
• Excessive use of CGI: In some scenes, the abuse of digital makes certain moments lose realism.

Public reception

The public responded very well to Jungle Cruise, especially families and adventure film lovers. It was hailed as a perfect film to watch at the theater or at home with children, thanks to its blend of humor, action, and heart.

In Rotten Tomatoes, the film maintains a 62% of critical approval and a 92% of the public, which indicates a solid popular reception.

In IMDb, has a rating of 6.6/10, while in Metacritic, your score is moderate (around 50-60).

In terms of ticket office, Jungle Cruise raised more than $220 million worldwide, despite its simultaneous release on Disney+ with Premier Access (a hybrid model due to the pandemic). It also performed strongly on streaming.

Technical and visual aspects

• Visual effectsDisney didn't skimp on CGI, especially in the mystical creatures, haunted rivers, and action sequences. Some effects are stunning; others, somewhat artificial.
• Production designFrank's ship, ancient temples, jungle, and colonial cities are all richly detailed, creating an immersive atmosphere.
• Costume and makeupLily wears period costumes tailored for the adventure; Frank has a look inspired by theme park guides. The cursed conquistadors have unique designs with snakes, mud, or roots integrated into their bodies.
• Soundtrack: Composed by James Newton Howard, the music accompanies the action and adventurous tone with good rhythm, although it does not stand out as much as in other films of the genre.
• Photograph: Vivid colors, wide shots, and constant movement make for a visually vibrant and dynamic experience.

Conclusion

Jungle Cruise It is a film that delivers what it promises: Classic adventure, humor, light romance, magical creatures, and an epic jungle journey. While it doesn't break new ground in terms of story, it executes the elements it uses well and has the charm to sustain interest throughout its two-hour runtime.

Emily Blunt brings character, intelligence, and elegance; Dwayne Johnson brings strength, charm, and leadership. Together, they form a solid duo that could continue in future installments if Disney decides to turn it into a franchise.

Ideal for fans of movies like Pirates of the Caribbean, The Mummy either Uncharted, Jungle Cruise offers an entertaining, familiar, and magical viewing experience without taking itself too seriously.