Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile follows the heartwarming story of a singing crocodile named Lyle, who lives in the attic of a New York City home. When the Primm family moves in, young Josh discovers Lyle and quickly befriends him. Together, they navigate the challenges of fitting in and overcoming fears, all while dealing with the grumpy neighbor, Mr. Grumps, who threatens Lyle’s existence.

Themes

The film explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of family. It emphasizes that family can come from the most unexpected places and highlights the power of music to bring people together.

Character Development

Lyle: Voiced by Shawn Mendes, Lyle is an endearing character whose singing talent and gentle nature win over the hearts of the Primm family and the audience.

Josh Primm: Played by Winslow Fegley, Josh’s character arc involves overcoming his anxieties and learning to embrace new experiences with Lyle’s help.

Hector P. Valenti: Javier Bardem delivers a standout performance as Lyle’s charismatic owner, whose journey from a struggling performer to a beloved family member adds depth to the story.

Director’s Style

Will Speck and Josh Gordon bring a vibrant and whimsical style to the film, blending live-action with CGI to create a visually appealing and engaging experience. Their direction ensures that the film maintains a lighthearted and joyful tone throughout.

Performances

Shawn Mendes: His vocal performance as Lyle is charming and adds a unique touch to the character.

Javier Bardem: Bardem’s portrayal of Hector is both energetic and heartfelt, making him a memorable part of the film.

Constance Wu and Scoot McNairy: As the Primm parents, they provide solid support and contribute to the film’s warm family dynamic.

Technical Aspects

The film’s CGI is well-executed, bringing Lyle to life in a believable and endearing way. The musical numbers, featuring songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, are catchy and enhance the overall enjoyment of the movie.

Strengths

• Heartwarming Story: The film’s narrative is touching and suitable for all ages.
• Strong Performances: Particularly from Javier Bardem and Shawn Mendes.
• Visual Appeal: Effective use of CGI and vibrant cinematography.
• Catchy Music: Memorable songs that add to the film’s charm.

Weaknesses

• Predictable Plot: The storyline follows a familiar formula, which might feel clichéd to some viewers.
• Pacing Issues: Certain parts of the film may feel slow or drawn out.

Overall Impact

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a delightful family film that offers a blend of humor, heart, and music. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, its positive messages and engaging characters make it a worthwhile watch for families and children.

Recommendation

If you’re looking for a feel-good movie to enjoy with your family, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is definitely worth a watch. Its charming characters, uplifting themes, and entertaining musical numbers are sure to leave you with a smile.