Missing Link is a 2019 animated adventure-comedy film directed by Chris Butler, who is best known for his work on Coraline (2009) and ParaNorman (2012). Produced by Laika Studios, Missing Link is a stop-motion animated film that combines humor, heart, and adventure in a story about the search for a legendary creature. With an all-star voice cast, stunning animation, and a unique blend of humor and warmth, the film captures the spirit of classic adventure tales while offering a modern sensibility. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its animation, voice performances, and unique story.
Plot Summary
Missing Link follows the story of Sir Lionel Frost (voiced by Hugh Jackman), an ambitious and somewhat arrogant adventurer and explorer who is determined to prove himself as the greatest explorer of his time. However, his colleagues in the prestigious Society of Great Men dismiss him as a fraud and ridicule his work, particularly his pursuit of mythical creatures.
One day, Frost receives a mysterious letter from a creature who claims to be a Sasquatch, or “Missing Link.” The creature, later named Mr. Link (voiced by Zach Galifianakis), is a gentle, well-spoken, and misunderstood being who lives in the Pacific Northwest. He is convinced that he is the last of his kind and seeks Frost’s help to find his relatives, the Yeti, in the Himalayas.
Despite the skepticism of his peers, Frost embarks on an expedition with Mr. Link and a clever, independent woman named Adelina Fortnight (voiced by Zoe Saldana), who has her own reasons for joining the journey. Together, they face numerous challenges, including a rival explorer named Willard Stenk (voiced by Timothy Olyphant) who is determined to capture Mr. Link. Along the way, the group forms a bond of friendship as they explore the uncharted corners of the world and uncover the truths of their own identities.
The film’s central themes revolve around friendship, self-acceptance, and the idea that true adventure lies not just in exploring the world, but in understanding oneself and others.
Main Cast and Characters
- Hugh Jackman as Sir Lionel Frost: The charming but somewhat self-absorbed adventurer who embarks on the journey with Mr. Link. Jackman’s voice performance brings the character’s blend of arrogance and vulnerability to life.
- Zach Galifianakis as Mr. Link: The titular Missing Link, a Sasquatch-like creature with a big heart and a desire to find his place in the world. Galifianakis provides the character with warmth, humor, and sincerity.
- Zoe Saldana as Adelina Fortnight: A fierce, intelligent woman who accompanies Frost and Mr. Link on their journey. Saldana’s performance brings depth to the character, and her interactions with the male leads add layers of complexity to the adventure.
- Timothy Olyphant as Willard Stenk: A rival explorer who is intent on capturing Mr. Link and securing his place in the history books. Olyphant’s voice work adds an element of danger and comedic antagonism to the film.
- Stephen Fry as the voice of the Society of Great Men: Fry provides the voice for the society’s leaders who dismiss Frost’s theories and hold his work in contempt, adding a satirical edge to the portrayal of elite gatekeepers.
Themes and Style
Missing Link explores themes of friendship, self-identity, and acceptance, set against the backdrop of an adventurous journey. The film’s core message is that what makes one truly unique is not a quest for external validation, but rather self-discovery and mutual respect. Mr. Link’s desire to find his kin is symbolic of the universal human longing for connection, acceptance, and belonging.
The film also tackles the notion of “outsiders” in a playful yet meaningful way. Mr. Link, as a literal “missing link,” is a misunderstood creature who defies the expectations of those around him. He is presented as a gentle, compassionate being who is much more than the mythic, fearsome creature society imagines him to be. His journey of self-discovery parallels Frost’s personal growth as he learns to embrace his own vulnerability and imperfections.
Visually, Missing Link is a marvel of stop-motion animation. Laika Studios, renowned for its attention to detail in stop-motion films, brings the world of Missing Link to life with meticulous craftsmanship. The lush, expansive environments—from dense forests to towering mountains—are intricately designed, adding to the film’s sense of adventure. The character designs, particularly of Mr. Link himself, are quirky and endearing, contributing to the film’s overall charm.
The animation also shines in its use of vibrant colors and rich textures, creating a visually stunning world that contrasts with the traditional nature of adventure tales. The characters move fluidly, and the backgrounds are layered with depth, making the world feel immersive and alive.
Audience Reception
Missing Link was met with positive reviews from critics, particularly for its animation quality, voice performances, and humor. The film was praised for being a family-friendly adventure that also contains deeper themes of self-acceptance and personal growth. Critics highlighted the humor and warmth in the characters’ relationships, with Mr. Link’s innocence and Frost’s growth as characters standing out as the heart of the film.
In addition to its critical success, Missing Link was also a contender for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 92nd Academy Awards. Though it did not win, the film’s nomination further solidified its status as a standout in the animated film genre.
While the film was praised for its stunning animation and creativity, some viewers felt that the plot, although charming, was somewhat predictable and didn’t offer as much emotional depth as some other animated films in recent years. However, for many, the film’s visual appeal and delightful characters made up for any narrative shortcomings.
Conclusion
Missing Link (2019) is a delightful animated adventure that blends humor, heart, and stunning stop-motion animation. With its charming characters, beautiful visuals, and strong themes of friendship and self-discovery, the film stands out as an enjoyable family film with deeper messages. The performances of the voice cast, particularly Zach Galifianakis as Mr. Link, add an extra layer of warmth and personality to the story, while Laika Studios once again proves its expertise in creating visually rich and emotionally resonant films. For those who enjoy a heartfelt, visually striking adventure with a touch of humor, Missing Link offers a memorable and satisfying experience.
