Given that this is an independent production, it is a surprise how great the fantasy realm looks. The puppetry work on Ao is good, with subtle movements adding to his realism. Trader Joe’s animatronic mouth is also very good. The jaw moves well, and the upper and lower lips curl one way or the other, creating the sense that he’s a real person. Underhill’s cinematography captures the magic in fun ways. The camera zooms and swoops through strange fauna or the twin-mooned sky, selling just how otherworldly this realm is. Aside from adding kinetic excitement, it also makes the world feel as if it exists beyond the borders of the screen.
The cast of The Keepers Of The 5 Kingdoms also helps in creating this believable world. Mao is spunky and easy to like. Yet again, Harr proves her charisma. Sato is sweet and likable while humorously selling his character’s dumbness. Ling is always a welcome presence and makes for a genuinely frightening baddie from beginning to end. Takei, voicing a puppet-based tortoise for the second time, is an excellent choice as the serene, wise mentor. Basco and Sheridan are absolutely hilarious together. Unsurprisingly, Hong makes the biggest impression. He gets to show off his comedic talents and dramatic chops and express his love for his Chinese ancestors and the stories. The actor pulls it all off with aplomb.
“…strikes a perfect balance between action and character development.”
Ward’s direction strikes a perfect balance between action and character development. The over-the-top antics of Frank and Hank could have rubbed against Patsy’s more dramatic home life poorly. However, their goofiness is interspersed with quieter, more introspective moments that delve into the characters. This pacing allows the audience to catch their breath and reflect on the characters’ journeys before the next exciting sequence begins. The action is fast and fun, with the hopping vampire attack and the final confrontation being the most memorable. The theme of love between family and friends, even if unspoken or unrealized, is strewn well throughout, with the final few minutes capping it all off perfectly.
The Keepers Of The 5 Kingdoms is a rip-roaring fantasy adventure the whole family will love. The magical world the leads get swept into is fully realized and alive. The effects, from CGI to puppets, are well done and look great. The cast is tons of fun, especially Hong, whose love for this material is very evident. Ward and Underhill wrote strong characters all watching care about, and the direction keeps it all flowing well. Where’s the sequel?
"…a rip-roaring fantasy adventure the whole family will love."
