Missing Link

The Missing Link, a 2019 animated adventure comedy film directed by Chris Butler, follows the journey of the eccentric and confident Sir Lionel Frost, who is on a mission to prove the existence of a legendary creature known as the Missing Link. Set in the late 19th century, the film is a visually stunning exploration of Victorian-era society, full of eccentric characters and grand gestures. The story begins with Sir Lionel Frost, a celebrated and charismatic explorer, who is considered a master of tracking down myths and monsters. While he has no shortage of enthusiasm and self-confidence, he struggles to gain recognition and acceptance from the elite society of adventurers. The world, or at least the ones he seeks to impress, is not convinced of his claims, and his peers view him as nothing more than an eccentric. Despite the mocking and disbelieving attitude of his peers, Sir Lionel is driven by his insatiable hunger for validation and recognition. He hopes that by proving the existence of the Missing Link, he will finally be acknowledged as a great adventurer in his own right. Thus begins a grand quest that takes him to the Pacific Northwest, a vast and unfamiliar terrain, teeming with legends and mysterious creatures. On his journey, Sir Lionel meets Adelbert Steckle, a bumbling but well-meaning zoologist, who claims to have knowledge of the Missing Link's whereabouts. Steckle's dubious credentials and dubious motives only serve to further reinforce Sir Lionel's skepticism. Nevertheless, the two men embark on a perilous and arduous journey across the Canadian wilderness in search of the elusive creature. As they traverse treacherous terrain and face numerous challenges, they are aided by a young and spirited Native American woman, Harriet, who is initially a reluctant guide to the duo. However, as her interactions with Sir Lionel and Steckle reveal her complexity and wit, it becomes clear that she will not be an easily manipulated guide. Throughout the film, Sir Lionel's perception of the world and its inhabitants undergoes a significant transformation. From a detached and condescending attitude towards the people and creatures he encounters, he slowly begins to see the world with fresh eyes. He discovers that the creatures he has always considered myths are, in fact, real and deserving of respect and compassion. As Sir Lionel draws closer to the Missing Link, he finds himself on a journey of self-discovery, confronting his own biases and assumptions. He realizes that his perception of the world has been shaped by the limited understanding of his class and society, and that there is much to learn from those who have lived in harmony with nature. Through the Missing Link, Sir Lionel gains not only the recognition and validation he sought but also a deeper understanding of the world and its inhabitants. He comes to understand that his pursuit of knowledge and understanding should not come at the cost of respecting and honoring the cultures and traditions of others. The animation in the film is breathtaking, with meticulously crafted environments and intricate details that bring the world of the Missing Link to life. The voice acting is equally impressive, with Hugh Jackman delivering a nuanced and charismatic performance as the complex and flawed Sir Lionel Frost. The Missing Link is a delightful and entertaining film that is both visually stunning and intellectually engaging. With its exploration of the human condition and our relationship with nature, it is a timely reminder of the importance of compassion, respect, and understanding. By challenging our assumptions and encouraging us to see the world through new eyes, the film leaves the viewer with a lasting message about the importance of empathy and understanding in a rapidly changing world.