In Skydance Animation’s 'Spellbound', a fantasy musical animation, protagonist Ellian’s parents are literally transformed into monsters. The princess of Lumbria, with the help of royal advisors Bolinar and Nazara, manages to keep her parents hidden from their kingdom. The plot takes a turn when the truth about her parent's transformation is on the verge of being discovered. This prompts Ellian to take up a journey to reverse her parents' monstrous form.
Directed by Vicky Jenson, known for co-directing Shrek, 'Spellbound' follows the young princess's quest to morph her parents back. While preserving parents’ earlier human identity, the narrative also focuses on the heartfelt relationship between a child and her parents. The plot is kept engaging by withholding the cause of the parental transformation until quite late in the film.
The film does takes predictable turns when the Oracles, initially determined to have a resolution to the monster encumbrance, turns out to be of no help when the truth about the monarchs is eventually exposed. This leads to Ellian's temporary crowning as the ruler while her parents are taken away. Meanwhile, Ellian navigates multiple hardships to protect her family, seeking the Oracles again to seek advice.
As the film unfolds, Ellian engages on a road journey with her monster parents and her pet rat. The narrative, although conforming to usual plot structures, surprises with moments of emotional depth in-between. Especially touching is the scene involving Ellian communicating with her parents in their monster forms, creating an emotional narrative of family love and understanding.
However, the film loses its grip when it shifts to the forest setting and the challenges there. These elements appear familiar and even the songs seem more fleeting. Yet, revelations about her parents' life before they were turned into monsters re-energize the storyline, leading to an emotional climax and teaching valuable lessons about family and understanding.
