IronWatcher’s review published on Letterboxd:
Watched in the cinema (162nd visit in 2024)
The name Katja Brandis may not mean much to adults, but children and young teenagers have been devouring her books about the shape-shifting Woodwalkers, Seawalkers and Windwalkers for years. In addition to at least two books a year, the first film in the series is now also being released; incidentally, the first of two planned sequels had already been filmed before the movie was released.
Admittedly, the introduction to the cinematic world of the shapeshifters is a little bumpy. For example, it seems a little strange when talking cougars are shown in the wilderness without much explanation. The decision by the filmmakers around director Damian John Harper to introduce the main character Carag (Emile Chérif) to his human foster family and only gradually reveal his secret to the audience also takes some getting used to.
However, the whole thing picks up considerably when Carag arrives at the boarding school. The revelation of the secret shapeshifting school may be reminiscent of many a fantasy or superhero story. However, thanks to the likeable actors, who make an appealing ensemble in human and animal form, viewers quickly find their way into this world. Leading actor Emile Chérif impresses with his pleasantly reserved manner, making him an ideal character for young viewers to identify with, but the other young actors and actresses are also appealing in their roles. The well-known adult actresses and actors, such as Martina Gedeck, are not entirely convincing, but the character face of Oliver Masucci is a multi-layered counterpart to the kids in the cast.
Of course, "Woodwalkers" stands and falls with the animal sequences and the transformations, and these are actually surprisingly well done. This is largely due to the fact that the filming, which did not take place in the USA but in Bavaria, Tyrol, South Tyrol and the Harz Mountains, was primarily based on real animals. The semi-tame animals were filmed on location and only then put together for the joint scenes. Where computer-generated effects had to be used, the film fortunately keeps a low profile; instead of cheap-looking computer animals, transformations are mainly seen in transitions between shots, at the edge of the frame or out of the corner of the eye - this looks simple but effective for a production from Germany that can't compete with the huge budgets of Hollywood blockbusters.
With its predictable but nevertheless engaging story about the cougar Carag and his hairy and feathered friends, the film conveys an exciting and always funny story about friendship and being different that will not only appeal to fans of the book series. "Woodwalkers" is unmistakably a fiery plea for nature conservation and love of animals, yet it doesn't come across as pandering, but makes you want more.
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