Pinocchio (2022) Review

Alongside Marvel & Star Wars it seems like Disney's other obsession is remaking iconic animated Disney films through a mix of Live Action & CGI. The newest version of this habit is Pinocchio, release on Disney+ Day, this new remake of the original classic is out now and I have watched it so here is my review. The premise of the film sees a lonely toy maker wish that his toy would come to life, we now see the adventures of Pinocchio as he tries to become a real boy. 

Main Character

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth voices Pinocchio and he does a completely serviceable job. He is pretty energetic and you can tell that he is really trying his best in this role. But Pinocchio just comes across as a bit annoying, his character is just frustrating to watch at times and the fact that this film is clearly aimed at kids means there isn't much to work with. 

Supporting Characters

Tom Hanks plays Geppetto and he is as good as he can be. The fact that it is Hanks rises this performance, but it is really silly and adds nothing to the film, he even disappears for a while which makes you think that Hanks just did this because he had some spare time. Joseph Gordon Levitt play Jiminy Cricket and he really masks his voice here that I didn't even know it was him till I looked it up and that is good. He is probably over used but there is no denying that he is somewhat entertaining here. There are a few other characters here, but none of them are given enough screen time to really care or learn about them. Though one appearance by an actor I had no idea was in the film was nice to see. 

Story 

The story is all over the place and doesn't really do anything that I like. There is the relationship between Pinocchio and Geppetto, but it is ignored for a large part of the film. It just feels really unfocused with Pinocchio going on these different journeys that do not connect and feel like they're different episodes on a TV show. It would be interesting to see if the original felt like this but it was definitely a criticism here. 

Script 

The script actually has some funny moments that made me chuckle. It even has some modern references dropped in there at times that worked but also came across as quite confusing due to the setting of the film. But the film lacks real heart which for a film like this is essential, it falls short on the emotion and that is a great shame. 

Style 

The film looks pretty good sometimes and pretty poor at other times. Disney pumps plenty of money into this and it does come across well with some spectacle here and there. The CGI for Pinocchio isn't great and the pacing for the film is all over the place. 

Overall

Overall, Pinocchio is a below average film that isn't worth the time for anybody. It seems Disney are pushing forward with these live action remakes but this is one you don't have to waste time with. 

Rating - 4/10