The Sea Beast

The Sea Beast (2022) is an animated adventure film directed by Chris Williams, best known for his work on Disney's Moana and Big Hero 6. Released on Netflix, the film blends action, humor, and heart, all wrapped up in a sweeping, pirate-infused maritime tale. It has been praised for its beautiful animation, strong character development, and its subversion of traditional hero-villain tropes. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes The Sea Beast a standout animated film: Plot Overview The story is set in a world where fearsome sea monsters rule the oceans and are hunted by brave adventurers known as "monster hunters." The film follows Jacob Holland, a skilled and fearless hunter, and Maisie Brumble, an adventurous young girl who stows away on Jacob's ship. Maisie has grown up idolizing the legendary monster hunters who keep the seas safe from these mythical creatures, believing that all sea monsters are inherently dangerous. However, their adventure takes a turn when they encounter a mysterious and misunderstood sea monster, Red. Jacob and Maisie form an unlikely bond with Red, discovering that the creatures they’ve been taught to fear are more complex and misunderstood than they ever realized. As Jacob grapples with his lifelong beliefs about monsters, he begins to question the narrative he's been taught, and he must choose between upholding the tradition of monster hunting or forging a new path to protect both humans and sea creatures. Themes The Sea Beast tackles several big themes that resonate not just with children, but with adults as well: Challenging Tradition : One of the core themes of The Sea Beast is the idea of questioning the stories we’ve been told and reevaluating long-held beliefs. Jacob, as a seasoned monster hunter, has spent his life believing that monsters are to be destroyed, yet his growing relationship with Maisie and the sea creatures challenges these ingrained ideas. The film highlights the importance of questioning the status quo and thinking critically about the narratives that shape our understanding of the world. Fear vs. Understanding : The movie also explores the theme of fear, particularly how fear can be fueled by misunderstanding and misinformation. The sea monsters in The Sea Beast are initially portrayed as villains, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that they, too, have their own lives, cultures, and stories. The monsters are not inherently evil; they are simply misunderstood. This shift in perspective encourages viewers to think about how fear and prejudice can cloud our judgment about others, whether they are people, animals, or entire cultures. Heroism and Legacy : Heroism is also central to the story. Jacob has been raised to believe that monster hunters are the ultimate heroes, but as the story progresses, he learns that true heroism often involves selflessness, empathy, and the courage to protect what’s right — even when it means challenging the legacy of your ancestors. Jacob's evolving understanding of heroism is beautifully portrayed, and it echoes the idea that sometimes being a hero means protecting those who are misunderstood or marginalized. Environmentalism and Conservation : While the film does not explicitly focus on environmentalism, there’s an underlying message about the importance of respecting nature and its creatures. The idea that humans and sea monsters can coexist peacefully instead of exploiting them for sport or profit is a message that resonates with current global discussions around conservation and the treatment of animals. Animation and Visual Style One of the standout aspects of The Sea Beast is its stunning animation. The film is visually rich, with sweeping sea vistas, vibrant underwater scenes, and dramatic action sequences that capture the epic scale of the story. The character designs are wonderfully expressive, especially for the sea monsters, who range from fearsome creatures to more gentle and majestic beings. The film’s use of color is also notable, with rich blues and greens evoking the oceanic world, and the design of Red, the sea monster, is particularly striking, blending both intimidating and endearing qualities. The action sequences, particularly those involving the sea monsters, are beautifully choreographed and exhilarating. The combination of hand-drawn animation and 3D elements gives the film a timeless, classic feel while still feeling modern and fluid. The animation does an excellent job of conveying the sheer scale of the monsters and the danger the characters face, while also capturing quieter, more emotional moments. Characters Jacob Holland : Jacob is a classic hero figure, raised in the tradition of monster hunting and trained to fight and kill sea beasts. However, his character arc is about evolving from a conventional hero into someone who questions the morality of his actions and begins to see monsters in a new light. Jacob is brave, capable, and initially driven by a sense of duty, but his experiences with Maisie and Red help him discover a new, more nuanced path to heroism. Maisie Brumble : Maisie is a young orphan who idolizes the monster hunters, believing that defeating sea monsters is the ultimate good. However, Maisie’s character arc challenges this notion as she learns the complexities of the creatures she once feared. She’s curious, resourceful, and fearless — traits that make her a compelling and likable protagonist in her own right. Maisie’s growth from naive admirer to empathetic ally is one of the film’s most rewarding arcs. Red : The sea monster Red is arguably the most interesting character in the film. Initially perceived as a fearsome beast, Red is revealed to be a misunderstood creature with intelligence, emotions, and a sense of self-preservation. The relationship between Jacob, Maisie, and Red is the emotional core of the movie, and Red is not just a "monster" but a complex character in his own right. The design and personality of Red give him a depth that elevates the film beyond a typical "man vs. beast" narrative. Critical Reception The Sea Beast was met with positive reviews, with critics praising its breathtaking animation, strong character development, and its subversion of traditional storytelling tropes. Many appreciated the film’s ability to mix thrilling action with heartwarming moments, and its timely messages about empathy, environmentalism, and challenging authority struck a chord with audiences. The film has been compared to other animated adventure films, but The Sea Beast sets itself apart through its focus on character-driven storytelling and its exploration of themes like legacy and heroism. Some critics noted that the film's pacing could feel a bit slow in the middle, but overall, it was seen as a well-crafted family film with something for both younger viewers and adults. It doesn’t shy away from heavier themes, making it a more thoughtful and layered movie than typical adventure fare. Final Thoughts The Sea Beast is a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant film that stands out not only for its stunning visuals but also for its thoughtful approach to storytelling. It takes familiar adventure and monster-hunting tropes and flips them on their head, offering a refreshing perspective on heroism, identity, and the complexities of the natural world. With strong performances, a compelling narrative, and an unforgettable monster in Red, The Sea Beast is an adventure film that is both entertaining and meaningful. Its themes of questioning tradition, understanding the misunderstood, and fostering empathy are more timely than ever, making The Sea Beast an engaging and thought-provoking film for audiences of all ages.