Laura McDonald
Release Date: September 22, 2017
Building Time: 1 hour and 41 minutes
Rated PG
Grade B
Directed By Master Builders: Charlie Bean, Paul Fisher, & Bob Logan
You Must Follow the Right Path
In the city of Ninjago, Lloyd is a lonely teenager who is painfully avoided by all of his classmates and townsfolk since his father is the evil warlord Garmadon. His only friends are his fellow ninja warriors: Cole, Jay, Kai, Nya, and Zane. Together, they form a secret ninja force that protects Ninjago City from Garmadon’s relentless attacks. Under the tutelage of Master Wu, the ninjas are encouraged to sharpen their skills to become ninja masters, have patience and courage, and learn the importance of looking at things differently. During Garmadon’s most recent attack, Master Wu also discourages them from seeking The Ultimate Weapon since they are not ready to control it. When the ninjas disregard Master Wu’s advice and unleash The Ultimate Weapon, he has to lead the ninjas to the Temple of Fragile Foundations to help them get to the next level. Meanwhile, a confused Lloyd struggles with not having his father around during his upbringing as he uses all of his powers to defeat him. Lloyd also learns that his mom, Koko, has a secret identity of her own when Master Wu forces his to understand his future by going back to his ninja roots. Before the ninjas can retrieve The Ultimate Ultimate Weapon they must follow the right path and find their inner piece in order to master the art of Spinjitsu.
The Strongest Weapon is Inside You
What appeals to the animated film audiences almost as much as superheroes? Yes, you guessed it… ninjas! From the team that assembled The Lego Movie and The Lego Batman Movie comes this hilarious new addition to the franchise complete with ninjas, legos, and a whole lot of fun. The directors have extensive experience in being story artists for family favorites such as How to Train Your Dragon, Madagascar, Puss In Boots, The Powerpuff Girls Movie, and Megamind. Their focus and attention to detail resonates in the visual presentation that boldly envisions the story elements. While both the adults and children will appreciate the wise-cracking humor, the film appeals to both with its creativity, strong moral messages, and vibrant colors. The voice actors, led by veteran actor Jackie Chan (The Nut Job 2 and Kung Fu Panda), shoot this film out of a volcano with fiery and endearing performances. Dave Franco builds on his voice acting career by taking the lead role by the horns which was a huge leap from his miniature role as Wally (Bricksburg construction worker) in The Lego Movie. The 101 minute running time allowed for a more in-depth story but seemed to be about 10 minutes too long for the younger crowd in the audience. With its chair dancing soundtrack, creative animation, and excellent moral messages I highly recommend that you follow the right path and Ninja-Go see this one on the big screen. ~Movie Buffette
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