A Wrinkle in Time

A Wrinkle in Time, the new Disney film directed by Ava DuVernay and based on the book by Madeleine L’Engle, is a surefire way to families’ hearts. Although a bit trite, and rather over-infused with moral lessons, the movie creates a dreamlike universe of its own.

The flick follows protagonist Meg Murray, played by Storm Reid, and her grand adventures through the galaxies to find her long-missing father. Reid captivates the audience as she emphasises the value of self-love and sacrifices; her character is the young, strong female lead cinema-goers have been yearning for for years. As such, A Wrinkle in Time will resonate well with young women, particularly those who deal with the same low self-esteem and fail to “fit in” with their peers. Travelling alongside Meg are her adopted brother Charles Wallace, and acquaintance-turned-love-interest Calvin O’Keefe. Although O’Keefe and Murray’s chemistry starts off as endearing, it quickly becomes repetitive and forced.

The three children are guided by Ms Whatsit, Mrs Which and Ms Who. Mrs Whatsit is perhaps the least favourable of the three – with her blatant mockery of the protagonist, as well as her oftentimes being played rather vapidly by Mindy Kaling. Oprah Winfrey, however, is wonderful as Ms Who, managing to make up for the lack of novelty from her supernatural counterparts

Much of the plot focuses on the character development of Meg – notably, her journey to accept her shortcomings and come to terms with her inability to relate to her peers. This is consistent with the novel, and part of the reason the film resonates so well with audiences. However, some parts of the picture feel disingenuous to its intent; take the dystopian scene, for example, where Murray, Wallace, and O’Keefe discover a neighbourhood in which every resident is exactly the same. This was an obvious allegorical reference to Communism in the book, whereas, in the movie, the scene feels disconnected, confusing, and unnecessary.

Although the film has its share of shortcomings, ultimately, it enchants and entertains viewers, who find themselves wrapped up in the madness and suspense. The flick is set at a quick pace, and succeeds in keeping viewers not only interested but engaged for the entirety of its duration. The truly magical CGI effects add intrigue, with vivid characters and imaginative planets. A Wrinkle in Time is yet another wonderful Disney creation.

Laura Boyle

A Wrinkle in Time is released nationwide on 23^rd March, 2018.

Watch the trailer for A Wrinkle in Time here: