"The BFG" Review

Title: The BFG

Directed by: Steven Spielberg

Written by: Melissa Mathison and Roald Dahl

Year: 2016


I am not familiar with Roald Dahl's The BFG. I have never read the book, and all I know about it is that a giant is involved. I am, however, familiar with Steven Spielberg, who has made several wonderful family films. Does Spielberg bring his signature magic to the table, or is this a giant letdown?

A young girl by the name of Sophie is kidnapped from an orphanage by a giant after having caught sight of him. Over time, these two begin to form a bond. However, Sophie's life is threatened by the other man-eating giants and it is up to the BFG to keep her safe.

Spielberg has always had a knack for picking out talented young actors, and Ruby Barnhill is no exception. She plays Sophie and gives an impressive performance as the lead character. Despite not having her name in the title, this is Sophie's story. The film's success relies almost entirely on Barnhill's performance and she thankfully delivers. But Mark Rylance's portrayal of the Big Friendly Giant is where the true heart of the movie is found. He brings so much warmth and charm to the movie with a terrific rendition of the literary character. Is it accurate to the book? I have not the foggiest idea, but what I do know is that this could not have been a simple performance. The BFG speaks plenty of gibberish that must have given Rylance a difficult time delivering lines. But he manages to make it seem so easy and natural, which is a feat in itself.

As for the story, well -- there really is no story; not until the second half of the movie that is. The BFG captures Sophie and takes her back to Giant Country and they start to become friends, and that is about it for the beginning. Later on, a conflict arises and, in turn, a plot; but a good chunk of the movie is just Sophie and the BFG spending time together. That might sound strange, but trust me when I say that the relationship between these two characters is enough to carry the film. Just watching the friendship of these misfits grow is beautiful and captivating, far outshining the eventual plot. They learn so much from each other and the chemistry between the two actors is explosive. Their friendship is highlighted during the dream scenes, which are absolutely phenomenal.

The majority of the first half of the picture takes place in Giant Country, immersing the audience in another world. However, the second act spends a lot of time back in England, which is far less interesting. Sophie and the BFG need to acquire the Queen's assistance in taking down the evil giants, and this is where the film begins to lose its footing. The most glaring issue is that there are two consecutive sequences where nothing happens. For 20 to 25 minutes, you are being entertained, but the plot is not progressing. I will admit that the second sequence is actually hysterical, but it feels like padding to stretch out the runtime.

In addition, because a lot of it takes place in England, there is a lack of the charm and wonderment that permeated the first half of the movie. England is a complete bore when compared to the BFG's home or the dream tree. Also, the movie seems to set up a certain time period at the beginning. I thought the story was taking place sometime in the early 20th century. But then, out of nowhere, a walkie talkie appears, followed by other modern technology. This revelation is jarring and will catch you off-guard. It detracts from the tone and atmosphere set up earlier.

Spielberg's direction is as sure-handed as ever. He proves to be a master of his craft by creating a film where the entire first half is about two people getting to know each other and you are enthralled. He makes a growing friendship such an engrossing experience, while also contributing his brilliant cinematography. One thing that really sticks out about The BFG is the lighting. This movie works with a hundred-color-rainbow and the lighting is superb. Just look at that shot of the BFG grabbing Sophie. The way the light streams in from the windows is magnificent. There is also a long-take chase sequence, where the camerawork makes use of a grand scale with fluid motion and dynamic height changes.

The standout moments from this film are when our protagonists are catching, making, and giving dreams. The way dreams are illustrated in this picture is incredible. Dreams are made up of parts and each part contains a different emotion or feeling. Making a dream is very much like following a recipe, and the scene where Sophie is helping the BFG concoct a good dream is the film's shining moment, and one of the best scenes of the year. Spielberg directs these parts with stunning grace, able to bring out the child-like wonder in all of us.

The motion-capture work on Mark Rylance is excellent. It looks as if Rylance is wearing makeup as opposed to a skin-tight suit with white balls on it. Every facial expression, every nuance is captured perfectly. The effects of the other giants are not as good, though. They look a bit too cartoonish, which does not fit the environments surrounding them. What does look great are the dream essences. They have a flow and energy to them that is animated very well. John Williams is the composer and he presents a modest score. The music evokes the magic and emotions on the screen, accompanying the film well, but it is not memorable in the least. Not a bad score by any means, just not one of Williams' best.

The BFG will not be remembered as one of Spielberg's defining films, but I think it is a well-made family picture that everyone can enjoy. Ruby Barnhill and Mark Rylance work wonderfully together, the cinematography is fantastic, and there are quite a few laughs to be had, including what might be one of the best fart jokes in cinematic history. The first half of this movie is utterly marvelous, with charm and beauty to spare. The second half, though bogged down by a generic and uninteresting plot, is still entertaining. If you are looking for a well-crafted film that has plenty of heart, then give the The BFG a watch.

Grade: B