Strange Magic (2015), directed by Gary Rydstrom, is an animated fantasy film set in a vibrant, enchanted world filled with magic, creatures, and a love story at its core. The film is loosely inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare and features an ensemble cast of fairies, goblins, and elves, all living in a magical forest. The story centers around a quest for love and the power of transformation, set against a backdrop of musical numbers and colorful animation.

The plot follows Princess Marianne (voiced by Evan Rachel Wood), a strong-willed fairy who is heartbroken after her fiancé betrays her. Determined not to fall in love again, she inadvertently gets swept into a conflict between the forces of good and evil in the forest. The antagonist, the dark and brooding Bog King (voiced by Alan Cumming), is a creature determined to keep love and happiness out of his domain. However, through the course of their journey, Marianne and Bog begin to realize that things are not always as they seem, and both must confront their inner struggles to find peace and love.

One of the standout elements of Strange Magic is its vibrant animation. The magical forest and the various fantastical creatures that inhabit it are brought to life with rich colors, whimsical designs, and stunning visuals. The animation is playful and energetic, matching the whimsical tone of the story.

The film also features a soundtrack filled with popular songs from a variety of genres, including rock, pop, and classical. The musical numbers add a fun and lighthearted layer to the narrative, with characters singing their emotions and experiences. While the songs help keep the pace of the story moving, they can feel a bit out of place at times, as they seem to shift the tone away from the plot and towards a more musical theater vibe.