16-year-old Ruby Gillman (voiced by Lana Condor) lives with her family in the seaside town of Oceanside. Anxious, Ruby is forced to keep secret her family’s seafaring ways because others won’t understand. Worst still, Ruby’s mother (Toni Collete) also asks that she stay out of the ocean. Ruby dutifully complies until one day, after a proposal gone wrong, her crush falls in. She dives in to rescue him and just like that, her previously unknown kraken powers are unleased.
From there, Ruby realizes that her status comes with massive powers and she must deal with what that means for her. Rebellion against a parent and realizing a friend isn’t what she appears are among the issues in a story that follows a typical well-trod teen movie of the past. Even so, Ruby Gilman, Teenage Kraken manages to never be stale, is aided by the voice talents of Jane Fonda, Annie Murphy, Sam Richardson and others.
While not a classic, Ruby Gilman, Teenage Kraken is a breezy, fun little story with a welcome emphasis on female power. Add the quirky animation and Ruby Gilman, Teenage Kraken will likely entertain adults who watch it with their kids.
Presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, Ruby Gillman Teenage Kraken delivers a strong visual presentation. Sharpness is strong and softness never becomes an issue. The source is pleasing with no apparent flaws. While Ruby Gilman offers significant blues and greens, the film also includes vivid pinks, reds and purples. Blacks are deep and inky. Contrast is spot on.
Like the video, the DTS-HD MA 7.1 soundtrack is a strong one. The environment is all encompassing when necessary. As the action increases, the soundfield ups its game, delivering a well-mixed environment. The score is also well mixed with satisfactory punch when necessary. Dialogue is clean and concise throughout.
English, Spanish and French subtitles are included.
The following extras available:
- Audio Commentary with Director Kirk DeMicco, Co-Director Faryn Pearl, Producer Kelly Cooney Cilella, Head of Character Animation Carlos Fernandez
- Deleted Scenes (HD, 10:04) Including intros from co-director Pearl, the three scenes include “Prologue” (2:43), “Walk to School” (3:03) and “Crab ‘n Skate” (4:18).
- Myth or Monster (HD, 3:32) Includes brief interviews with voice actors Lana Condor and Annie Murphy.
- Meet the Cast (HD, 9:03) Includes brief interviews with various cast and crew.
- The Kraken Krew (HD, 9:58) Yet more brief interviews with various cast and crew.
- Prom Stories (HD, 4:37) Various cast and crew reflect on their proms.
- Super Sea Girl Besties (5:05) Reflections from cast and crew, this time including head of lighting Joanna Wu.
- Tutorials (HD, five sections, 14:28) Oceanside Drawing Guide and Make Your Own Aquarium
- DVD of the film is included.[amazon box =”B0C8VBW65J”]