Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Story from China is a captivating and enchanting animated adaptation of the classic fairytale, 'Little Red Riding Hood.' Directed by Scott Shaw and produced by Femme VFX, this short movie features the voices of B.D. Wong and Ernest Troost, who bring to life the tale of a brave little girl who outwits a cunning wolf.
The movie begins with three sisters, Shang, Tao, and Paotze, who are left home alone while their mother goes to visit their grandmother. The eldest sister, Shang, instructs her younger sisters to stay indoors and lock the front door while she steps out to do some errands. However, their plan is quickly thwarted when a mischievous wolf named Lon Po Po appears at their doorstep, disguised as their grandmother.
Lon Po Po convinces Tao to let him inside, and once he's in, his intentions become clearer. He's hungry and wants to eat the children. Nevertheless, Tao realizes his plan and immediately informs her sisters of the wolf's true identity. Together, the sisters hatch a plan to outsmart Lon Po Po and keep themselves safe. They use their wit and intelligence to trick the wolf, and ultimately, they outsmart him, saving themselves and restoring peace to their village.
One of the standout elements in Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Story from China is the animation. The movie uses a style that's reminiscent of traditional Chinese brush painting, which brings a unique and fresh aesthetic to the story. The manner of storytelling is also impressive. The pacing of the movie is just right, with the tension ramping up at the right moments and leading up to a satisfying resolution.
Another impressive aspect of the movie is the voice acting. B.D. Wong and Ernest Troost's performances are brilliant, and they bring a sense of depth and nuance to their characters. Wong's portrayal of Lon Po Po is particularly noteworthy; he captures the wolf's slyness and cunning perfectly, while Troost's portrayal of Shang brings a level of gravity to the story.
Despite being an adaptation of a familiar tale, Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Story from China is thought-provoking and engaging. The story is sprinkled with traditional Chinese cultural elements and nuances that offer an insight into the country's customs and beliefs. For example, the movie emphasizes the importance of family and trusting your instincts, as well as highlighting the power of intellect and resourcefulness.
In conclusion, Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Story from China is a delightful movie that's sure to captivate both children and adults alike. It's beautifully executed and thoughtfully told, with plenty of humor and heart. The movie's traditional Chinese aesthetic and cultural undertones set it apart, making it a truly unique and worthwhile watch.
Lon Po Po: A Red Riding Story from China is a 2018 family movie with a runtime of 13 minutes.
