Ratchet & Clank is a 2016 computer-animated science fiction comedy-adventure film directed by Jared Hess, based on the video game series of the same name. The film follows the story of Ratchet, a Lombax, and his alien friend Clank, as they try to stop Chairman Drek from destroying their home planet.
Background and Development
The film was in development since 2007, with various directors attached to the project over the years. Finally, Jared Hess was brought on board to direct the film, which was produced by Evan Wells and Joey Mason. The screenplay was written by T.J. Fixman, who also worked on the video game series.
The film features the voice talents of James Arnold Taylor as Ratchet and David Kaye as Clank. Other notable voice actors include Jim Ward, Paul Giamatti, and Bella Thorne.
Plot
The film takes place in a futuristic universe where Ratchet, a Lombax, lives on the planet Veldin. He befriends Clank, an artificial intelligence created by a scientist named Professor P. Walrus, who built him to assist in his work. However, Chairman Drek, a sinister leader, plans to destroy Veldin to create a new planet for his own people.
Ratchet and Clank join forces with a group of rebels, including Al, a mysterious and skilled fighter, to stop Drek and save their home planet. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and enemies, including Drek's army of robots and the mysterious Magmodron.
Reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with an approval rating of 45% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it has a higher approval rating of 64% on Metacritic. Audiences generally enjoyed the film's visuals and humor, but felt that it lacked the depth and complexity of the video game series.
Despite the mixed reviews, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $90 million worldwide. It also spawned a sequel, Ratchet & Clank 2, which is currently in development.
Visual Style and Animation
The film features vibrant and colorful animation, bringing the world of Ratchet & Clank to life in a way that's both faithful to the video game series and visually stunning. The animation is handled by Animal Logic, a renowned animation studio known for its work on films like The Lego Movie and Happy Feet.
The film's visual style is heavily influenced by the video game series, with a focus on vibrant colors, detailed environments, and over-the-top action sequences. The animation is also notable for its use of motion capture technology, which allows the actors to bring their characters to life in a more realistic way.
Music and Soundtrack
The film's soundtrack is composed by Daft Punk, the renowned electronic music duo known for their work on films like Tron: Legacy and The Next Day. The soundtrack features a mix of electronic and orchestral elements, with a focus on catchy and memorable themes.
The film's score is notable for its use of humor and wit, with a focus on parodying sci-fi cliches and tropes. The soundtrack also features a mix of original songs and score pieces, creating a unique and engaging listening experience.
Impact and Legacy
The film has had a significant impact on the video game industry, showcasing the potential for big-screen adaptations of popular video game franchises. It has also sparked a renewed interest in the Ratchet & Clank series, with the release of new games and merchandise.
The film's success has also paved the way for other video game adaptations, such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Detective Pikachu. Its influence can be seen in various other animated films and TV shows, including the critically-acclaimed series Arcane.
Technical Details
| Production Company | Distribution |
|---|---|
| FilmDistrict and Gramercy Pictures | FilmDistrict |
| Release Date | Genre |
| April 29, 2016 | Science Fiction, Comedy-Adventure |
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