IF presents a whimsical theory; what if Imaginary Friends were real.

At some time in their life, children may have had an imaginary friend, but what happens to them when the child grows up? 

That is the premise of this movie, written and directed by John Krasinski. 

A young girl Bea, (Cailey Flemming), grows up with playful parents bringing out her creative side. 

When Bea goes to live with her grandmother in her childhood apartment, she discovers she has been followed by Blossom, a human bee. 

Curious, she follows Blossom to the apartment where she eventually meets Cal, (Ryan Reynolds) who is looking after all the rejected IFs

Life has more meaning for Bea now, as she visits her father in hospital, and takes on the mission of helping Blossom and Cal find the children they once belonged to.

The animation is meticulously crafted with spectacular colours that bring the Imaginary Friends and their whimsical world to life. 

Each scene is filled with intricate details and vibrant hues, everything to attract a child’s imagination. 

Visual

However, while the film’s visual appeal and delightful characters are top notch, it feels somewhat uneven. 

The scenes where Cal takes Bea to the retirement home of IFs, while interesting, is too fast-paced. 

It tries to balance playful elements with deeper themes of imagination, acceptance and friendship.

The voice acting is strong, with Steve Carell’s portrayal of Blue standing out as particularly heartwarming.

Carell brings a warmth and humour to Blue that makes the character instantly loveable and memorable. You will recognise other stars that have lent their voice to the other characters.

The PG rating makes it confusing if this is really a ‘kids’ movie; I took my 10-year-old niece and asked her to give me her opinion as part of a creative writing home assignment. 

Here is what Neve wrote.

I didn’t really love the movie all that much but I did the enjoy the whole movie experience. (She didn’t feel any empathy for the characters, which is odd, she’s a crier in dog movies). 

I thought it was okay but I still liked Drop dead Fred better!!

Blue was my favourite character. I thought the movie was sort of plain with not enough excitement compared to Sonic and Woody Woodpecker.

Ryan Reynolds provided more entertainment than Bea. 2.5 chickens.

Despite these flaws, it isn’t without its charm either. IF manages to be an entertaining experience and it does have a happy ending.

2.5 / 5 chicken

by PAULA HOLLAND