The Exigency

The Exigency from 2019, directed by Cody Vibbart, is an ambitious animated science fiction film that brings back the nostalgic feel of 80s and 90s space-adventure classics. Filled with colorful characters, out-of-this-world locations and heart-pounding stakes, the feature is a creative escapade built on a clever combination of family values, strategies, survival, and space exploration.

Center stage we have Kyle, voiced with a heart and determination by Tom Haney. Kyle is an average family man, thrown into an extraordinary situation. Once an acclaimed star pilot for the Exigency, a colossal, powerful interstellar entity that ensures the harmony of different galactic races, he is now leading an utterly different life. He resides in a small town on Earth, cherishing a peaceful existence with his wife Lyra (Alexis Danner) and his daughter Cora—an ordinary man living an ordinary life.

Out of the blue, after ten years of quietude, Kyle receives an urgent message from Darius (Warren Halderman), his estranged best friend and ex-commanding officer. Darius warns him that the Exigency, their former interstellar organisation, is in immediate peril from a powerful adversary. The enemy is equipped with destructive power that can wreak havoc on whole star systems, leaving the Exigency defenseless and direly needing Kyle's unique piloting and combat skills to save the day. With this sudden threat looming over the tranquility of his world, Kyle must choose between the safety of his family and the survival of the Universe.

Kyle's voyage takes him back to space, where he encounters old allies and foes alike. The film is jam-packed with epic space battles, scenes of planetary exploration, intricate negotiations with strange alien races, and sometimes, humorous interactions that provide a welcome breather amidst all the tension. All the while, Kyle battles his inner demons, particularly the dread of losing his family and the guilt of abandoning them to respond to the call of duty.

Imbued with an original story blended with lessons on friendship, self-sacrifice, family and duty, The Exigency stands out by balancing its action-packed sequences with genuinely heartfelt moments. The nuanced relationships between the characters, especially between Kyle, Lyra and Darius, are portrayed effectively, with their conflicts and resolutions forming the crux of the storyline.

In his delivery of Kyle, Tom Haney conveys a natural, textured performance, making the character relatable and driving viewers to root for him. Alexis Danner stars as Lyra, the stranger to the world of space battles, but loving mother and wife, who must endure her own trials. Her performance brings an emotional depth to the story, juxtaposing the far-flung cosmic drama with scenes of domestic life. Warren Halderman lends his voice to the complex character of Darius, the desperate and forlorn soldier who, despite his physical absence, remains a constant presence in the life of his friend and ex-partner.

The animation is punchy and filled with meticulously designed spaceships and planetary atmospheres. The visuals present a charming amalgamation of contemporary CGI with retro animation styles. Complementing the visuals are the stunning sound effects and the thrilling soundtrack that add to the overall immersive experience of the film.

Despite being a small-budget production, The Exigency is a testament to the potential of the genre, offering a fresh, heart-warming narrative amidst mainstream animation blockbusters. Balancing engaging dialogues, complex character arcs, and diverse planetary settings, it proves to be a worthwhile watch that is appealing to both children and adults. You can expect to be transported on an exciting interstellar journey that embarks from a quiet, small-town life on Earth and traverses the expanse of the cosmos, facing grave perils and life-altering choices along the way. The Exigency promises a riveting tale of duty, friendship, love, and the extraordinary courage hidden in the most ordinary of men.