Nimona – Film Review

A knight is framed for a crime he didn’t commit, and the only person who can help him prove his innocence is Nimona, a shape-shifting teen who might also be a monster he’s sworn to kill.

Nimona, directed by Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, is a visually stunning animated film that captivates its audience with its gorgeous animation and intriguing storyline. Based on the 2015 graphic novel by ND Stevenson, the movie follows the journey of a framed knight and his unlikely ally, Nimona, a shape-shifting teen who may be more than meets the eye.

One of the first things that stands out about Nimona is its absolutely stunning animation. The film’s visuals seem to be heavily inspired by the style of the Spider-Verse films, and it works in all the best ways. The use of vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and unique character designs make it one of the most visually striking movies of the year. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, and the attention to detail is truly commendable.

The story of Nimona is both intriguing and unexpected. It delves into dark and intense themes, which is surprising considering the film’s marketing targeting a younger demographic. The narrative takes some unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged and invested throughout. Personally, I appreciated the gritty undertones and the willingness of the filmmakers to explore darker elements within the story.

At first, the character of Nimona may come across as eccentric and over-the-top goofy, which can be a bit jarring. However, as the film progresses, the character’s charm becomes more apparent, and I found myself genuinely enjoying Nimona’s presence on screen. Chloe Grace Moretz delivers an absolutely terrific performance as the voice of Nimona, capturing the character’s unique personality and adding depth to her portrayal.

Riz Ahmed shines in the vocal role of Ballister Boldheart, a former knight for the Institution who was wrongfully accused of murdering Queen Valerin. Ahmed brings a delightful energy to the character, infusing him with humor, vulnerability, and a sense of redemption. His chemistry with Nimona is palpable, and their interactions form the emotional core of the film.

The pacing of Nimona is generally well-executed, keeping the story moving at a steady pace. However, it is in the third act where the film stumbles a bit. There are moments where the narrative feels rushed, and some plot points could have been further developed for a more satisfying conclusion. While it doesn’t significantly detract from the overall experience, it is worth noting that the third act could have benefited from tighter storytelling.

Nimona is a visually stunning and engaging animated film that brings the graphic novel to life in a remarkable way. The animation style, reminiscent of the Spider-Verse films, is a feast for the eyes, and the story’s dark and intense themes add depth to the narrative. Despite a slightly stumbling third act, the film delivers an enjoyable experience with memorable characters, particularly Nimona and Ballister Boldheart. Directed by Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, Nimona is a must-see for animation enthusiasts and fans of the original graphic novel alike.