Daisy Quokka: World's Scariest Animal
By Stefan Pape,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Animated underdog tale celebrates courage; cartoon violence.
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Daisy Quokka: World's Scariest Animal
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What's the Story?
DAISY QUOKKA: WORLD'S SCARIEST ANIMAL tells the story of Daisy (Angourie Rice), who is a quokka -- an underestimated specie of animal, that most write-off as being insignificant. Until now. For Daisy is determined to compete in the "World's Scariest Animal" competition, despite being, well, not very scary. But she has help, in the shape of her idol, and former champion, Frankie Scales (Sam Neill); a crocodile who unwittingly takes up the role of her mentor and coach.
Is It Any Good?
The third film from the Australian The Tales from Sanctuary City franchise, this is a hugely conventional animated tale that ticks all the boxes of the competition-format narrative. In short, Daisy Quokka: World's Scariest Animal is about an underdog who teams up with a has-been trainer to defy the odds and compete. It's Cool Runnings. It's The Karate Kid. Now familiarity doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing. There can be something comforting from these tried and tested formulas, so long as it's done well and brings a degree of freshness.
Rice does a fine job voicing the eternally optimistic Daisy, but the true star of the show is Neill, lending his gruff, unforgettable vocal talents to the role of Frankie. But despite some touching moments between the two leads, there's no escaping this film's lack of originality. While it has a lot to say -- promoting the notion of never giving up, no matter how hard the task ahead seems to be -- it's nothing that hasn't been told many times before.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the cartoon violence and peril in Daisy Quokka: World's Scariest Animal. Did it feel appropriate for a movie like this? Why, or why not? What's the impact of media violence on kids?
Daisy showed both courage and perseverance in her quest to compete in the "World's Scariest Animal" tournament. Why are these such important character strengths to have? Can you think of any examples from your own life when you've showed these traits?
Daisy is very much an "underdog." What do you understand the term underdog to mean?
Frankie made a fine trainer and mentor to Daisy. Do you have anyone who helps and teaches you that you find inspiring? What do you think makes a positive role model?
Movie Details
- In theaters: October 29, 2021
- On DVD or streaming: July 13, 2021
- Cast: Angourie Rice , Sam Neill , Sharnee Tones
- Director: Ricard Cussó
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: Vertical Entertainment
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts , Friendship , Wild Animals
- Run time: 88 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 20, 2023
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