Strange World is a gem from Disney that definitely deserves more attention than it’s gotten. This adventurous tale packs a punch with its rich storyline that explores generational trauma through the lives of the Clade family. We follow three generations—the grandfather, father, and son—as they grapple with their visions of what the family should be. It’s a theme Disney often explores but does so exceptionally well here, in a setting that bursts with vibrant, breathtaking animation. The visuals are undeniably some of Disney’s best, yet the film heartbreakingly didn’t make it to as many theaters as it should have.
The film draws inspiration from classic adventure flicks like Indiana Jones, while beautifully integrating themes of environmentalism within its alien world. This world is full of stunning, bizarre landscapes, engaging characters—both human and not—and creatures that are intriguingly weird. Despite its surreal setting, the story hits home with conflicts that are deeply human. The Clade family’s journey is not just about navigating unknown territories, but also about understanding one another—a journey that requires them to face the obvious which they hadn’t seen before. Sadly, Disney didn’t give this film the marketing push it needed, which resulted in one of the most significant box office flops in history. But if you’ve got access to Disney+, do yourself a favor and watch it. It’s an awesome film that truly deserved a better shot at success.
