Home

Home is an engrossing animated adventure film that spins an enjoyable narrative around themes of alien invasion, friendship, understanding and the meaning of 'home'. This 2015 DreamWorks Animation picture speaks volumes about the importance of friendship and individuality, conveying compelling messages with heartfelt sincerity that caters to both children and adults alike.

Home cleverly tells the story of a friendship that transcends cultural and intergalactic barriers, between an adorable, misfit alien named Oh and a resourceful, determined girl named Tip. Oh is a member of the alien species known as the Boov, who have sought refuge on Earth after fleeing their enemy, the Gorg. Oh, a typical Boovian who longs for companionship, accidentally alerts the Gorg to their new home, thus becoming a fugitive within his own kind.

While on the run he meets Tip, a young human girl, who has been separated from her mother since the Boov invasion. Tip is an equally endearing character, a strong-minded and independent girl who is trying to find her mom. Despite their striking differences and initial apprehensions, Tip and Oh strike up an unexpected friendship as they embark on a global road-trip-like adventure, during which they learn more about each other and their respective cultures.

Steve Martin lends his voice to Captain Smek, the over-confident and comical leader of the Boov, while Jennifer Lopez voices Tip's loving and determined mother. Rihanna shines with her voice acting debut as Tip, and Jim Parsons, best known for his role in The Big Bang Theory, does an excellent job in giving Oh his unique voice, bringing out his earnestness and kindness that makes Oh so likable.

This animated extravaganza is not just visually impressive, but also tickles your funny bone with its humor. Home is sure to elicit laughter with its slapstick comedy and clever wordplay. The film explores the universal theme of home—what it represents and means to those who have lost it, then regained it.

Home manages to express heavy, important ideas in a light-hearted yet impactful manner, showing the importance of understanding and embracing differences, and recognizing that 'foreigners' may not be so different from us after all. Key in this film is the exploration of friendship and empathy. It delves into the power of empathy, showing us that understanding and acknowledging someone else’s perspective can transform a ‘foe’ into a friend.

Moreover, the movie is imbued with a rich emotional undercurrent beneath its colorful, appealing visuals. It hits home the message that it's okay to be different and not fit in all the time. The characters' journey eventually leads them to the realization that home is not a place, but rather, the people (or aliens!) that make you feel like you belong.

Home also delights with a dynamic and energetic soundtrack, including hits by Rihanna such as "Towards the Sun" and "Feel the Light", making the movie a musical treat. The soundtrack drives the heart of the story forwards, evoking emotions that connect the audience to the characters and their adventures.

Directed by Tim Johnson, Home is spectacularly animated with a unique visual style that distinguishes it from other animated films. The textures, colors, and details in each scene are captivating and add to the overall storytelling.

In conclusion, Home is a charming tale of friendship, tolerance, courage and belonging that celebrates diversity and advocates for harmony between different cultures. It's not just an adventure across the world, but also an adventure of self-discovery and understanding, making Home an enjoyable journey for all. With its funny, yet meaningful narrative, beautiful animation, and brilliant performances, Home successfully strikes a chord with its audience, leaving them with laughs, tears, and a warm feeling of home.