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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 it offers a completely original story set in the Amazon jungle, full of action, humor, romance and supernatural elements. The film pays tribute to classics such as Indiana Jones, The mummy and Romancing the Stone, but with Disney's characteristic family and visual seal.
Synopsis
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In the middle of the First World War, the intrepid scientist Dr. Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt) travels from London to Brazil hoping to find one 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 ship captain who offers tours of the Amazon. Frank, although skeptical of the legend, accepts the mission attracted by money and adventure.
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Together, they embark on a dangerous journey through the jungle, facing each other natural traps, supernatural creatures, and a human enemies like the arrogant one Prince Joachim (Jesse Plemons), a German nobleman who also seeks the flower for military purposes.
During the trip, 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, which is not what it seems...
Cast
- Dwayne Johnson like Frank Wolff: Sarcastic and brave ship captain, with a mysterious past. He brings action, physical strength and charisma to the story.
- Emily Blunt like Dr. Lily Houghton: Determined, intelligent and bold scientist, in search of a discovery that challenges the rules imposed by a society dominated by men.
- Jack Whitehall like MacGregor Houghton: Lily's brother, eccentric and elegant, brings constant comic relief and stars as one of the first LGBTQ+ characters in a Disney film in a central role.
- Jesse Plemons like Prince Joachim: Cartoon villain, obsessed with finding the flower to dominate the world. His exaggeration is intentionally comical.
- Edgar Ramirez like Aguirre: Cursed Spanish conquistador, who returns from the dead as part of the supernatural antagonists. Its visual design is one of the most striking.
- Paul Giamatti like Nile: A corrupt businessman who controls part of the port where Frank operates.
Criticisms
The criticism was moderately positive. The film was praised for its light tone, charismatic performances and impressive visuals, although it received criticism for its predictable script and reliance on familiar formulas.
Highlights:
- Leading duo with chemistry: The dynamic between Johnson and Blunt was praised for its humor, energy, and balance of action and emotion.
- Classic adventure style: The film revives the spirit of the films of the 80s and 90s, with explorations, riddles, myths and curses.
- Ambitious production design: The jungle, magical effects and creatures are well done.
- Progressive message: Lily challenges traditional gender roles, and MacGregor represents LGBTQ+ visibility with respect.
Common negative reviews:
- Predictable history: Many twists are to be expected, and the film feels like a mix of elements already seen.
- Cartoonish villains: Although Jesse Plemons gives a funny performance, some consider him unthreatening.
- Excessive use of CGI: In some scenes, the abuse of digital causes certain moments to lose realism.
Public reception
The public responded very well to Jungle Cruise, especially families and adventure film lovers. It was valued as a perfect film to watch in the cinema or at home with children, for its mix of humor, action and heart.
In Rotten Tomatoes, the film maintains a 62% 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, their score is moderate (around 50-60).
In terms of box office, Jungle Cruise raised more than 220 million dollars worldwide, despite the simultaneous premiere on Disney+ with Premier Access (hybrid model due to the pandemic). It also had a strong streaming performance.
Technical and visual aspects
- Visual effects: Disney didn't skimp on CGI, especially the mystical creatures, haunted rivers, and action sequences. Some effects are amazing; others, somewhat artificial.
- Production design: Frank's ship, ancient temples, jungle, and colonial cities are richly detailed, achieving an enveloping setting.
- Costumes and makeup: Lily wears period costumes adapted to adventure; Frank has a look inspired by theme park guides. Cursed conquerors have unique designs with snakes, mud, or roots embedded in their bodies.
- Soundtrack: Composed of James Newton Howard, the music accompanies the action and the adventurous tone with good rhythm, although it does not stand out as much as in other films of the genre.
- Photography: Bright colors, wide planes and constant movement make it visually a vibrant and dynamic experience.
Conclusion
Jungle Cruise it's a movie that deliver what it promises: Classic adventure, humor, light romance, magical creatures and an epic jungle journey. Although it does not innovate in terms of history, it executes the elements it uses well and has the necessary charm to sustain interest during its two-hour duration.
Emily Blunt brings character, intelligence and elegance; Dwayne Johnson brings strength, friendliness and leadership. Together they form a solid duo that could move forward in future installments if Disney decides to turn it into a franchise.
Ideal for movie fans like Pirates of the Caribbean, The mummy or Uncharted, Jungle Cruise it offers an entertaining, familiar and magical viewing experience, without taking too seriously.
