The new adaptation of iconic children's story 'Harold and the Purple Crayon' adds an unexpected twist - Harold becomes an adult. The film, directed by Carlos Saldanha and featuring Zachary Levi, presents a grown-up Harold stepping into the real world. Previous attempts at movie adaptations, featuring big names like Maurice Sendak, Steven Spielberg, and David O. Russell, had never fully materialized. The film was rescheduled multiple times for release during the past year.
The screenplay by David Guion and Michael Handelman illustrates an eager Harold creating a portal to the real world with his magic crayon and stepping out as a rather comedic-looking Zachary Levi in a onesie. Cartoon companions Moose and Porcupine, played by Lil Rel Howery and Tanya Reynolds, also join him.
The story follows Harold and Moose as they search for their creator, leading to a series of gags, and crossing paths with a widowed single mother Terry, played by Zooey Deschanel, and her son Mel. The film indulges in farcical situations where Harold uses his magic crayon, leading to comedic adventures.
Further complications arise when librarian Gary, played by Jermaine Clement, who has a sentimental interest in Terry, discovers Harold's magic crayon. He attempts to fulfill his romantic and literary dreams leading to an elaborate drawing duel.
The film, primarily aiming at a younger audience, heavily focuses on playful shenanigans and slapstick humor, which might fall flat for adult viewers. However, Levi's solid performance as an overgrown boy is commendable.
Reynolds' Porcupine is a delightful character, while Howery's Moose offers comical relief, though not overwhelmingly successful. The film concludes on a positive note with a hint of reverence to the book’s author, accompanied by the soothing voiceover of Alfred Molina. Hints of nostalgic reminiscence from Tom Hanks' classic 'Big' can also be noticed, further contributing to the film's charm.
