Where the Wild Things Are (2009)

Max (Max Records) is an isolated young boy who feels neglected by his single mother (Catherine Keener) and mistreated by his older sister. When it all finally blows up and Max gets his feelings hurt, he runs off and sails to where the wild things are. The wild things—large talking beasts include Carol (James Gandolfini), KW, Douglas (Chris Cooper), Judith (Catherine O’Hara), Ira (Forest Whitaker), Alexander (Paul Dano) and the Bull—crown him their king. Max’s reign includes fort building, rumpus proclamations, and dirt clods.

The story really begins when Max reaches where the wild things are. Each creature is reflective of a particular piece of Max’s character. I think, that on some level, little Max knows this—but to each viewer his own. No doubt Spike Jonze’s offering is a polarizing feature simply because of the undercurrent of existentialism.

The film is atmospheric, dark, and sometimes intense, but it’s true to form when dealing with sadness, loneliness, anger, and happiness. Little Max Records is an engaging boy that is equally annoying and empathic. You care for this boy by the end of the opening sequence, understand his lashing out, but at the same time want to condone it. Jonze and Records have nailed the child’s perspective and it is beautifully done. The beasts are equally fascinating and surprisingly come across as multi-faceted creatures that you, the viewer, ultimately care for.

As I see it, Where the Wild Things Are is a unique adaptation of the children’s classic. Jonze respects the source material, celebrates it and the emotional journey of childhood. It's a beautiful, gentle story that feels genuine.