Adventures in Zambezia (2013)

Let me just confess that I missed this one; don't even know if it hit the theaters. It flew under my radar and, if it weren't for the Blu-ray and DVD release, I would have never known about it. And it would have been a shame, because "Adventures in Zambezia" rocks! This is one truly entertaining and funny animated movie for the whole family, that come to us from South Africa, of all places.

The story takes place in the beautiful African landscape, where we immediately meet young Kai and his father Tendai, two intrepid falcons that are freely flying in the majestic sky of the savannas and canyons. Tendai is teaching Kai to improve his flying and hunting techniques. The father is a little angry, because his son doesn't follow instructions and is not careful enough. Once they return to their nest, they have an argument, because Kai wants to be more able to explore and see new places. Tendai leaves the nest, and leaves Kai alone for a while. It is at this time that they receive the unexpected visit of one of Tendai's old friends, who is carrying some pigeons with her. She is running away from two vultures-like birds who want to capture the pigeons. Tendai's friend tells Kai that they are on the way to Zambezia, which is the best, safe place to live, a "paradise for birds." Once Tendai returns to the nest, his friend leaves, because they had a disagreement Tendai had bad memories about Zambezia. Kai, however, wants to go and see that fabulous place, and departs by himself against his father's will -in search of this promised land. Once he safely arrives to Zambezia, he discovers that it is indeed a great place. Furthermore, he wants to join "The Hurricanes," the "air force" that protects Zambezia, and which is comprised of the best of the best, the strongest birds in the colony. However, Kai's visit to Zambezia coincides with Budzo's (a giant lizard) plan to conquer this paradise. At the same time, Kai will learn things about his past which will play a role in his future.

"Adventures in Zambezia" has nothing to envy from the animation made by US studios. I have read commentaries that claim that the animation is a little outdated. I don't think so. The animation and script are sound, with a story involving good versus evil, with a love story in between. And the colors and landscapes are just awesome. Give it a try; you won't be disappointed. Plus, the voices are from Hollywood actors, such as Samuel Jackson, Leonard Nimoy, Abigail Breslin, Jeff Goldblum, and others. This is as good as it gets. The Blu-ray includes four featurettes and a music video (South Africa, 2012, color, 82 min plus additional materials).

Reviewed on March 18, 2013 by Eric Gonzalez for Sony Blu-ray

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