Two aquatic misfits embark on an impossible journey to save their home.
The animated adaptation of “The Pout-Pout Fish” draws inspiration from Deborah Diesen and Dan Hanna’s popular picture books but introduces a brand-new storyline, featuring the series’ best-loved characters. The film is brought to life by a notable voice cast, including Nick Offerman, Jordin Sparks, Amy Sedaris, and Miranda Otto. At the story’s core is Mr. Fish (voiced by Offerman), a reserved and perpetually downcast Ocean Pout, and Pip (Nina Oyama), an energetic, young sea dragon. Together, they embark on a quest to find a mythical fish, hoping it can help save their threatened underwater community.
Mr. Fish’s upbringing was shaped by his father’s advice to keep his distance from others, fostering a lifelong mistrust and preference for solitude. Now, he lives alone in a dilapidated shipwreck on the ocean floor, rarely venturing out. His neighbors, unaware that his downturned mouth is typical for his species, frequently encourage him to “cheer up” or “smile,” not realizing these suggestions don’t address his real struggles.
Pip’s sudden entrance disrupts Mr. Fish’s routine. Her boundless energy quickly leads to an accident: the shipwreck collapses off a cliff onto Pip’s own home, leaving both characters without shelter. Pip shares her worries about her family’s impending expansion—her parents are expecting hundreds of new siblings, and her now-destroyed home was supposed to house them.
In search of solutions, Mr. Fish remembers tales of Shimmer (Jordin Sparks), a legendary fish rumored to grant wishes, who once helped him reunite with his father when he was lost as a young fish. Believing Shimmer could help again, Mr. Fish and Pip set off to find her.
During their journey, they encounter several other sea creatures. Benji (Remy Hii), an orange cuttlefish, and Archie (Nazeem Hussain), a blue cuttlefish with glasses, join their quest. Benji reveals that a rapidly spreading kelp forest is blocking sunlight from reaching their habitat, endangering the community, and he hopes Shimmer can help. The group also meets Shaz (Mel Buttle) and Baz (Bessie Holland), two box jellyfish trapped under a boulder. After Mr. Fish frees them, the jellyfish provide directions to Shimmer, giving the group renewed hope.
While comparisons to movies like “Finding Nemo,” “Shark Tale,” or “Ponyo” are inevitable, “The Pout-Pout Fish” distinguishes itself through its unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and understated humor. The film explores familiar themes such as friendship, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Mr. Fish’s journey, in particular, highlights the gradual process of opening up and finding happiness by connecting with others. The narrative also touches on the importance of family, honesty, and community support.
Overall, “The Pout-Pout Fish” offers a positive, uplifting experience suitable for audiences of all ages. Its warmth and sincerity help it stand out among animated features, particularly in a market often led by major studios like Disney and Pixar. The film’s approachable style and meaningful messages make it a strong contender for widespread appeal.
Nick Offerman’s portrayal of Mr. Fish is a standout, effectively conveying both the character’s gruffness and his underlying kindness. The supporting cast—Jordin Sparks, Amy Sedaris, Miranda Otto, and others—each add depth and vibrancy to their roles, enhancing the film’s lively atmosphere. Produced by MiMO Studios, this movie is the first in a planned trilogy of animated musicals based on the book series.
In Theaters Friday, March 20th
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