Netflix has proven that it can actually do a great job when it comes to animation. The adaptation "Arcane" is one example of that. Back in June, Netflix released a movie titled "Nimona," and it is arguably one of the best movies that Netflix created. If you haven't seen it yet, here are some spoiler-free reasons why you should.
1. The Animation is Stunning
The artists behind the movie used a 2D stylized look for the film, and it blended wonderfully with the story it was trying to tell. They paid attention to even the smallest details, like the metal scales on Nimona's arm having different hues based on light reflection.
Usually, when buildings are at a distance, they are drawn as blobs of shape with splashes of color. In the movie's case, even the most distant part of the scene is fairly detailed. You'll be able to see how the waters are reflective and small flying cars passing through.
2. It Mixes Historical Culture Well
The film is set in a futuristic society, which means that technology is already advanced enough for them to have laser beams and flying vehicles. With that setting, you'd expect that the enforcers or warriors in the movie would look more like Stormtroopers.
Amazingly, that's not the case. Even with all the technology, the knights that are tasked to protect the city from monsters are still clad in traditional Medieval armor. Even ceremonies are done the way it was thousands of years ago, but it did not feel out of place in any of the scenes.
3. It Does Not Focus on Same-Sex Aspects Too Much
Early on in the movie, it will already be made clear that the protagonist of the show, Ballister, has a romantic relationship with one of the knights, Ambrosius. Some films or shows tend to over-emphasize these aspects to show that they're okay with it, which kind of beats the point.
The love between the two characters is shown in a normalized way. The movie didn't even include issues where Ambrosius and Ballister's relationship could cause problems because they're both men. That's more progressive than most of the same-sex content we have now.
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4. The Characters Are Not Cliché
In most titles, the side character who also serves as the golden boy is often portrayed as stupid. These usually aim to show that just because a person is loved and famous, doesn't mean they have the qualities to deserve it. It's refreshing that "Nimona" didn't go in that direction.
As a descendant of heroine Gloreth who saved the village from a monster a thousand years ago, Ambrosius Goldenloin was held in high regard. But, he actually deserved the recognition as he is kind, just, and compassionate of others. There's actually one other knight who's an imbecile.
5. It Lets You Empathize with Outcasts
Nimona is such a complex character and as you progress with the story, you'll understand why she is the way that she is. Everyone just took Nimona at face value because of her powers, and so she was forced to play the villain even though she never was.
The same can be said with Ballister. Knights in the movie are usually descendants from a noble bloodline, but Ballister was only a commoner as a kid. With that, people disapproved of him becoming a knight even though the Queen herself believed he had what it takes. As a bonus, we also see the wonderful bond that forms between Nimona and Ballister.
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