White Snake
By Sandie Angulo Chen,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Chinese folklore-based adventure is dark, violent, sensual.
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What's the Story?
WHITE SNAKE is an animated action-adventure inspired by the same-named Chinese fable about a snake demon who goes by the name of Blanca (voiced by Stephanie Sheh in the English-dubbed version) when transformed into human form. The movie, which is conceived as a prequel to the Chinese legend, starts off with Blanca complaining to her fellow snake demon, Verta (Vivian Lu), that she has meditated for 500 years but cannot reach immortality. Her heart is not at peace, so Verta gives her a magical jade pin that transports Blanca 500 years in the past. She learns that she had been sent to assassinate a dark general who was capturing and killing snakes for nefarious purposes when she was nearly killed and then drowned. After that, she wakes up with amnesia and discovers that she was rescued by handsome young snake-catcher Xuan (Paul Yen), who wants to help her recall her past. As Xuan and Blanca (along with Xuan's trusty dog, Dudou) journey to figure out Blanca's true identity, they grow closer. But Verta and the other snake demons are alarmed to hear that Blanca has been spotted consorting with a human.
Is It Any Good?
A complicated storyline; dark, violent action sequences; and swoon-worthy romance make this Chinese film a better pick for more mature audiences than most animated movies. Although the story of White Snake is based on an ancient Chinese legend, it's not likely that Western moviegoers will be well-versed enough in it to understand that this movie is more of a prequel to the fable than an adaptation of it. Some of the names and characters are the same, but without much context, unfamiliar viewers may be left wondering about several backstories. The animators do a fabulous job with the dazzling snake demon animation and action sequences, but the humans and backgrounds are slightly less impressive. It's also distracting that, once again, animated female characters (in particular) are sexualized.
Despite all of the many battle and fight scenes, White Snake works best as a romance, using recognizable themes such as a fish out of water, star-crossed lovers, and an amnesiac hoping to retrieve memories. There's plenty of chemistry between Xuan and Blanca, if not a lot of funny banter. Thankfully Dudou (who's revealed to have the ability to speak) provides much-needed comic relief to the rather serious proceedings. Several villains emerge, but the Big Bad is the Dark General (James Sie) and his henchman, Little General (Vincent Rodriguez III). White Snake should appeal to animation lovers, especially families with middle schoolers and older, who will appreciate the film's maturity.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in White Snake. Is it necessary to the story? Does animated violence impact viewers differently than live action?
Did this movie spark your interest in Chinese folklore? Would you like to learn more about the legend of the white snake?
Which characters, if any, do you consider role models? How do they exhibit important character strengths?
Discuss the sensuality and romance in the movie. Do you think certain kinds of animated movies are more apt to show romance than others? Why?
Movie Details
- In theaters: November 15, 2019
- On DVD or streaming: February 4, 2020
- Cast: Stephanie Sheh , Paul Yen , Vivian Lu
- Directors: Amp Wong , Ji Zhao
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Asian actors
- Studio: GKIDS
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy
- Character Strengths: Courage , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time: 99 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: August 25, 2022
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