Mavka: The Forest Song

When this film was recommended by a friend, he said lots of nice things about it that made me check it out without hesitation, but to be honest, I was a bit disappointed with the storyline. I believe that not everything must end well, especially in fantasy stories. Sometimes, a harsh plot twist where the main character chooses duty over love can add depth to the narrative.

As much as I am a freak for romance, I felt annoyed with this one. A female character doesn't always need a love interest in every fantasy animation. It's becoming boringly predictable. That's why I appreciated "Moana" so much because it took a different turn from the typical Disney romance-in-the-end plot. Moana and Maui's pure friendship without any romantic undertones was super refreshing. It is high time for main female characters to prioritize their duties over male companionship for a change.

No spoilers

"Mavka: The Forest Song" is a colorful 2023 musical animation that revolves around the titular character, Mavka, a naive forest spirit. Legend has it that humans are forbidden in the forest due to their greed. This ban was put in place after a human, seeking help to save his dying daughter, betrayed the trust of the forest spirits by attempting to seize the forest for himself. When his daughter returns to continue his mission, a young boy named Lukas is sent to the forest to gather proof of its existence.

Lukas successfully enters the forest and encounters Mavka, and it's up to her to decide whether to prioritize her love for him or protect the forest and its inhabitants from human greed.

Despite this film's predictable romantic subplot, "Mavka: The Forest Song”offers a soothing soundtrack that seeps into the soul and its visually stunning landscapes had me completely glued. The vibrant colors of the forest, flowing water, and diverse wildlife and the magical creatures are a feast for the eyes. However, sadly, in my opinion, the emphasis on romance detracts from the film's potential to explore more diverse themes.

I'd rate it a solid 4 out of 5, as it is enjoyable to watch with the family and somehow offers valuable lessons about nature and the environment. Subjectively, while it falls short in terms of narrative originality, its visual and auditory appeal make it worth a watch.