Movie Review of Lyle Lyle Crocodile

Firstly, I appreciate that it is an adaptation of an actual children’s story book (by the same name)! Secondly I appreciate that it’s a mini musical that gets the kids wanting to jump out of their seats and sing, dance, clap and twirl - mine certainly did.  

Now to the review...

The movie is a story of a singing crocodile pet, Lyle, abandoned by his owner and left to fend for himself. He is alone and must learn to fend for himself which he does in true Crocodile form by dumpster diving, eating pet cats and quick thinking when in a pinch etc. Lyle’s experience somewhat mirrors that of a young boy, Josh Primm, who he befriends. 

Josh’s family includes his step mom and Dad and they’ve all recently moved into a Brownstone building in Manhattan New York. Josh struggles with change, feeling alone and unsettled at home, at school and in his neighbourhood. He also struggles with asthma, anxiety and panic attacks. His step mom struggles with a type of OCD around healthy foods and routines around the house and Josh’s father struggles to maintain discipline and order in his high school classroom among other things. These are all really big themes and topics but I appreciate how lightly they are presented.

Spoiler Alert: It has a happy ending...

In the movie we also see clear resolutions as Lyle helps each family member to overcome their struggles and ultimately Josh helps Lyle overcome his fear of singing for a large audience. 

There are so many strong and important  themes present in the movie including Family, Change, Anxiety, Justice and Redemption. However what I took away from it is that in helping others heal we find our own path to healing. 

All in all I definitely recommend this movie for a fun family weekend activity great for all ages (rated G). 

Don’t sleep on Lyle the Crocodile!

 

For more family fun weekend ideas check out these 52 Fun Kid Approved Weekend Activities.