Arthur and the Invisibles (2006)

Arthur and the Invisibles Poster
Original Title: Arthur et les Minimoys

Arthur is a spirited ten-year old whose parents are away looking for work, whose eccentric grandfather has been missing for several years, and who lives with his grandmother in a country house that, in two days, will be repossessed, torn down, and turned into a block of flats unless Arthur's grandfather returns to sign some papers and pay off the family debt. Arthur discovers that the key to success lies in his own descent into the land of the Minimoys, creatures no larger than a tooth, whom his grandfather helped relocate to their garden. Somewhere among them is hidden a pile of rubies, too. Can Arthur be of stout heart and save the day? Romance beckons as well, and a villain lurks.

Introduction
"Arthur and the Invisibles" is a French live-action/animated fantasy experience film directed by Luc Besson, launched in 2006. The film blends live-action scenes with computer-generated images and is based on Besson's own kids's book, "Arthur and the Minimoys". The story follows the journey of a young boy, Arthur, who looks for to save his grandma's house from being repossessed by finding his grandfather's covert treasure in the land of the Minimoys, a tiny fairy-like individuals living in his own yard.

Plot Overview
Arthur (Freddie Highmore) is a 10-year-old boy living with his granny on his missing grandfather's estate. His grandparents were adventurers, and his grandpa, Archibald, supposedly discovered the African tribe of the Bogo Matassalai, who were guardians of the treasure of the Minimoys. As the bank threatens foreclosure on their home, Arthur ends up being identified to find the treasure to pay off their financial obligations.

The movie's narrative shifts from live-action to animation as Arthur finds a secret message from his grandpa, which leads him to shrink down to the size of a Minimoy and enter their wonderful world underneath the ground. Upon entering this microcosm, he is relabelled "Arthur the Valiant" and is greeted by the inhabitants as a hero who will obtain a lost stash of rubies that might save both their worlds from financial doom.

Arthur meets Princess Selenia (voiced by Madonna) and her more youthful brother, Betameche (voiced by Jimmy Fallon), who join him on his quest. They go through a series of experiences and difficulties, such as crossing a harmful landscape, facing off versus treacherous creatures, and eventually facing the high-handed Maltazard (voiced by David Bowie), who looks for to extend his control over the Minimoys and the human world.

Styles and Imagery
At its core, "Arthur and the Invisibles" is a traditional story of great versus evil, with Arthur standing up as a sign of courage and hope versus the oppressive Maltazard. The film takes on themes of bravery, loyalty, household, and the power of unity and love. It is also a coming-of-age story, with Arthur's journey echoing the obstacles of growing up and taking responsibility.

Besson's world of the Minimoys is a visual phenomenon with an unique European fairy-tale feel, abundant with rich landscapes and intricate detail that bring the mini universe to life. The film's depiction of the Minimoys' civilization combines aspects of nature with a touch of whimsy, reflecting the fundamental innocence and magic related to childhood dreams.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Arthur and the Invisibles" got combined reviews from critics, with some praising the film's imaginativeness and visual appeal, while others slammed the pacing and the coherence of its plot. However, it resonated with a more youthful audience and generated adequate interest to generate 2 sequels: "Arthur and the Revenge of Maltazard" (2009) and "Arthur 3: The War of the Two Worlds" (2010).

The film showcased a remarkable voice cast for the animated characters, consisting of Mia Farrow as Arthur's grandma and Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, and Snoop Dogg in supporting roles. Its music score made up by Éric Serra likewise contributed to the movie's captivating and mystical environment.

Conclusion
"Arthur and the Invisibles" is an adventurous blend of live-action and animation that invites viewers into a fantastical micro-world brimming with danger and excitement. It celebrates the heroism in all of us and the unlimited bounds of creativity, particularly that of a kid. Luc Besson's production, while met a selection of vital viewpoints, has made a lasting imprint as an unique piece of early-2000s family home entertainment with an ageless message at its heart.

Top Cast

  • Freddie Highmore (small)
    Freddie Highmore
    Arthur Montgomery
  • Madonna (small)
    Madonna
    Princess Selenia (voice)
  • Mia Farrow (small)
    Mia Farrow
    Daisy Suchot
  • Jimmy Fallon (small)
    Jimmy Fallon
    Betameche (voice)
  • David Bowie (small)
    David Bowie
    Maltazard (voice)
  • Doug Rand (small)
    Doug Rand
    Arthur's Father
  • Penny Balfour (small)
    Penny Balfour
    Rose Montgomery
  • Ron Crawford (small)
    Ron Crawford
    Archibald Suchot
  • David Suchet (small)
    David Suchet
    Narrator (voice)
  • Jason Bateman (small)
    Jason Bateman
    Prince Darkos (voice)
  • Adam LeFevre (small)
    Adam LeFevre
    Davido