Bookworm is a delightful old-fashioned adventure from New Zealand director Ant Timpson. This enchanting family film beautifully balances childlike wonder with adult charm, making it a must-see for audiences of all ages. Set against the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, the story follows 11-year-old Mildred, played brilliantly by Nell Fisher, as she embarks on a quest to catch a glimpse of the elusive Canterbury Panther—a cryptid that has captured the imaginations of locals and adventurers alike.
The film opens in a quaint suburb, where Mildred, an imaginative and determined young girl, is hatching plans to practice her trapping skills on her family’s reluctant cat, Jonesy. However, her ambitions soon take a turn when her mother, Zo (a warm and wonderful Morgana O’Reilly), winds up in the hospital. This unexpected twist brings her estranged father, Strawn Wise (played with endearing awkwardness by Elijah Wood), back into her life. Strawn, a once-famous magician with a flair for the dramatic, is ill-prepared for the role of a father to a child he never knew he had.
From the start, Mildred and Strawn’s relationship is anything but smooth. Their awkward first interactions are relatable and filled with humor, reminding anyone who’s ever felt out of place in their family of those cringe-worthy yet endearing moments. Wood’s portrayal of Strawn is truly magical—he captures the character’s nervous energy and complex emotions with ease. Strawn is a man trying to find his footing, caught between his glamorous past and the uncertain journey of parenthood. Wood’s nuanced performance beautifully reflects a man grappling with his failures while slowly learning to step up for his daughter.
Mildred is a vibrant whirlwind of energy, and Fisher imbues her character with a captivating blend of determination and vulnerability. Her remarkable presence carries the film, effortlessly conveying a spectrum of emotions that draw us into her journey. Whether she’s scheming to catch the mythical beast or confronting her feelings of abandonment, Fisher’s performance truly shines, marking her as a rising talent to keep an eye on in the future.
As the duo sets off on their camping expedition to hunt for the Canterbury Panther, the film shifts gears into a vibrant adventure filled with mischief and magic. The cinematography is a visual treat, transitioning from a nostalgic 4:3 format to widescreen as Mildred and Strawn venture into the wild. This clever use of visuals not only enhances the storytelling but also mirrors the characters’ growth as they leave behind their constricted lives for the expansiveness of nature.
The script, co-written by Timpson and Toby Harvard, is sharp and witty, weaving humor into the heartfelt narrative without sacrificing emotional depth. The dialogue sparkles with playful banter that showcases the growing bond between father and daughter. As they encounter various obstacles—ranging from misadventures in the woods to confrontations with the film’s quirky villains (played to perfection by Michael Smiley and Vanessa Stacey)—the story remains engaging and filled with surprises.
Despite its family-friendly exterior, Bookworm delves into themes of acceptance and personal growth. It captures the essence of what it means to heal old wounds and build new connections, reminding us that magic isn’t just found in illusions but in the relationships we nurture. The film resonates with viewers of all ages, ensuring that parents and caregivers won’t be checking their watches while the kids enjoy the adventure.
Bookworm is a delightful journey that goes beyond being just another family movie; it captures the essence of imagination, connection, and the simple joys of childhood. Ant Timpson creates a story that’s both fresh and relatable, inviting us to find magic in our everyday lives. With a perfect mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and beautiful visuals, this film truly enchants. It’s a fun adventure that reminds us of the importance of family bonds, making it a wonderful experience to share with your loved ones.
Bookworm is currently playing in select theaters and is available on Digital platforms courtesy of Vertical Entertainment.
Bookworm is a delightful journey that goes beyond being just another family movie; it captures the essence of imagination, connection, and the simple joys of childhood.
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Codie Allen is a passionate trans and queer film critic and entertainment writer based in Orlando, FL. A Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, Dorian Awards member, and CACF member, they also contribute to The Curb and InSession Film. When they’re not writing about films, you can find them sipping way too much tea and listening to Taylor Swift.
