SEAL Team (2017) is an animated action-comedy film that blends military themes with an underwater adventure. Directed by Greig Cameron and co-directed by Kane Croudace, it offers a quirky and lighthearted take on team-building and heroism, set entirely in the ocean’s depths. While the movie primarily targets a younger audience, it also delivers moments of humor and charm that adults can appreciate.
Plot Summary
The film follows Quinn, an enthusiastic but naïve seal, who decides to take a stand against a group of predatory sharks threatening his community. After witnessing the terror sharks inflict, he realizes that seals have no choice but to fight back if they want to live peacefully. Determined to protect his fellow seals, Quinn ᴀssembles a ragtag team of misfit marine animals. Together, they undergo intense (and often comedic) training to prepare for their ultimate mission: reclaim their waters and stand up to the sharks.
The movie’s story leans heavily on familiar tropes, such as the underdog ᴀssembling a team, training montages, and a climactic showdown. However, the film adds its own flair by weaving in humor, colorful animation, and likable characters.
Characters and Performances
The voice cast of SEAL Team brings life to the animated characters. Some standouts include:
•J.K. Simmons as Claggart, a gruff walrus who serves as a mentor figure.
•Jessie T. Usher as Quinn, whose optimism and bravery drive the story forward.
•Matthew Rhys as Grimes, the cunning leader of the shark pack.
Each character has a distinct personality, ranging from the comedic relief provided by a tech-savvy octopus to the wisecracks of a battle-hardened penguin. These personalities keep the story engaging, even when the plot becomes predictable.
Themes
The film explores themes like courage, teamwork, and standing up to bullies. It carries a positive message about the importance of believing in oneself and working together to overcome challenges. While these themes are common in family-oriented films, they are presented in a way that feels fresh due to the underwater setting and quirky characters.
Animation and Visuals
The animation is vibrant and colorful, successfully capturing the beauty and diversity of the underwater world. The character designs are playful and exaggerated, which fits the film’s lighthearted tone. While the visuals might not rival those of bigger-budget productions like Pixar or DreamWorks, they are polished enough to hold the audience’s attention.
Humor and Appeal
The humor in SEAL Team is a mix of slapstick, puns, and witty dialogue. While some jokes might resonate more with children, there are enough clever moments to keep adults entertained. The film strikes a balance between action-packed sequences and comedic relief, ensuring it doesn’t take itself too seriously
Conclusion
SEAL Team (2017) is a fun and heartwarming animated film that delivers a solid mix of action, comedy, and adventure. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre or offer groundbreaking storytelling, it succeeds as an entertaining family movie with a positive message. Its quirky characters, humor, and colorful visuals make it a worthwhile watch, especially for younger viewers or fans of lighthearted animated adventures.
