Der Junge & der Oktopus

4 minutes from New Zealand's most famous director, Taika Waititi!

It will not take you much longer to watch the entire short film than it will be to read this synopsis and review, so feel free to navigate away now.

Still here? Alright. How to summarize the four minutes?

"A young boy encounters a curious octopus while snorkeling on a seaside vacation. The persistent mollusk attaches itself to the boy's head and becomes his constant companion."

Still here? You could have watched most of it already. But, alright. Here are my thought bubbles.

Feels like a commercial. For what? Christmas? Yes. Disney? Yes. Octopuses? Yes. Octopi? Yes again.

Extra points for "Part of Your World" instrumental soundtrack for the ultimate The Little Mermaid and Under The Sea vibes, plus a fish tank cameo that evokes Finding Nemo and Pixar nostalgia.

Now go watch it if you have not already!

The Boy & the Octopus is a simple short film, but very entertaining for the little ones at home. Its premise is pleasant from a Christmas perspective, referencing dreams and the way to fulfill them.

However, it does not shy away from advertising the Disney+ streaming platform, also adding all those references to the world of the production house through its various well-known characters, in order to make you connect more with this little story.

Taika Waititi does a sustainable job in that way of filming cleanly and professionally. The camera focuses on our protagonists are well-crafted and have an attractive execution thanks to the fantastic accompanying cinematography. Those color games alluding to the reflected feelings are pleasant. You can also add those panoramic changes through different activities.

The special effects section focused on our little octopus friend looks very good, with that level of detail in expressions and fluidity of movement that speaks for itself. Additionally, a Christmas soundtrack accompanies his adventures.

Certainly, it is an unconventional story, but it tries to be sustainable through the reflective messages it conveys. However, beyond that, the advertising is more than noticeable. To watch and entertain children, it fulfills its purpose.

6.5/10.