“Jungle Cruise”

Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra

Rated: PG-13

Runtime: 2:07

Starring the ever-so-likeable actors, Emily Blunt and Dwayne Johnson, “Jungle Cruise” proves that Disney can somehow manage to successfully pull off creating a film based on a ride attraction into the ultimate adventure blockbuster. The film’s narrative is so complex that you have to wonder how the original ride skimmed through a storyline in the first place. The plot follows a determined Dr. Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt) as she and her posh brother, McGregor (Jack Whitehall) enlist the help of a mischievous skipper named Frank (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) to take them down the Amazon in hopes of discovering an ancient tree that will change the future of medicine forever. 

The film is a period piece, taking place at the very start of the 20th century, as it elegantly intertwines themes of what is and is not accepted by society at the time. The issues in question include a powerful female in possession of a well-earned Ph.D., let alone one that wears “pants” as shown by Dr. Houghton’s character, and also a gay man who cannot fit into the role he was given based on his status as shown by McGregor’s charming character. While the allusions are slightly subtle at times, “Jungle Cruise” does not fail to point out the tensions that plague unjust societal standards not only then, but also in today’s world. Politics aside, the film is just as fun and light-hearted as you would expect it to be — assuming that everyone’s expectations for a film starring The Rock are the same across the board.

If you have ever experienced the actual “Jungle Cruise” attraction at either Disneyland or Disney World, you may recall the cast member tour guide driving you on the seven-minute boat ride cracking more than a few ridiculous jokes with puns to spare. Well, let’s just say The Rock is your “punny” attraction guide in this film, even giving an actual “jungle cruise” just like the Disney ride at the beginning of the film. Disney fans will undoubtedly eat this up, for the suggestions and allusions are so entertaining. But for those who are unfamiliar with the Disney-ness of it all, they are still likely to fall victim to The Rock’s comedic charm as most audiences do whilst watching any of his films.

Speaking of The Rock, the performances in this film are anything but short of entertaining as one can guess from this wonderful cast. Emily Blunt is as charming as usual, but something about the combination of her wittiness and The Rock’s sarcasm is just pure comedic bliss, never missing a beat and feeding off of each other’s energy. Jack Whitehall, who is not as well-known per se as his castmates, gives an equally amusing performance as the spoiled, dramatic brother figure. He also happened to be my favorite character in the film. 

Who doesn’t love a fun scene-stealing supporting character?

All in all, “Jungle Cruise” is the perfect combination of adventure, fantasy, and comedy. The film 100% does not feel real in the slightest, which may be a negative aspect for certain audiences but if you are going into a Disney film expecting it to feel realistic, you are not in the right place. While the film does entertain a few serious themes and ideas throughout, it manages to keep its playful energy up the entire time. However, I must warn you: If you are terrified of snakes, do not see this film. While the film itself was not too scary, especially if you go into it expecting a “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” (2017) level of thrills, the snakes do look pretty realistic and unfortunately, do not disappear after one scene. Thus, if you are wondering about the movie’s level of appropriateness for your little one(s), take the scary reptiles and several jump-scares into consideration. If they can handle that, then the overall rating of the film will not be an issue. I give it a 7 out of 10 — only because the snakes terrified me, personally.