Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022) – A Heartwarming Family Adventure Filled with Music and Fun

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile (2022) is a delightful family film based on Bernard Waber’s beloved children’s book series about a singing crocodile named Lyle. Directed by Will Speck and Josh Gordon, this live-action/CGI hybrid film brings Lyle to life in an enchanting and heartwarming way, offering both children and adults a fun-filled experience. Featuring a star-studded cast, catchy songs, and a wholesome storyline, this film delivers everything you would expect from a charming family movie.

In this review, we’ll dive into the plot, characters, themes, and standout musical elements of Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, highlighting what makes it a memorable watch for viewers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of the original book or simply in the mood for an uplifting, feel-good movie, this film has something to offer.

Plot Summary – A Magical Adventure in New York City

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile centers on a young boy named Josh Primm (played by Winslow Fegley) and his family as they settle into their new home in New York City. Josh is struggling to adjust to his new life, feeling lonely and disconnected in the bustling city. However, his world changes when he discovers that a crocodile named Lyle (voiced by Shawn Mendes) lives in the attic of their apartment building.

Lyle, as it turns out, is not just any crocodile – he has an incredible singing voice that captivates Josh and his family. Although Lyle is friendly and kind, his unique talents are kept secret from the world. This leads to a series of comic misunderstandings, especially when Lyle becomes the center of attention, and the Primms’ neighbors become suspicious of the strange happenings in the building.

As Josh and Lyle form a deep friendship, they must confront their fears and the challenges of hiding Lyle’s secret, especially when an ambitious neighbor, Mr. Grumps (played by Brett Gelman), becomes determined to expose the truth. Along the way, Lyle and Josh learn valuable lessons about self-acceptance, friendship, and the importance of embracing who you truly are.

The movie builds towards an uplifting climax as Lyle finds his voice and embraces his individuality in a spectacular musical performance that showcases both his vocal talent and his joyful personality.

Character Analysis – The Heartwarming Bonds of Friendship

At its core, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a story about the power of friendship and the importance of accepting others for who they are. The film’s characters play key roles in exploring these themes.

• Josh Primm: Josh, played by Winslow Fegley, is the film’s main protagonist. He is a relatable character for young viewers, dealing with the universal struggles of fitting in and finding his place in a new environment. His bond with Lyle is heartwarming, and Josh’s character arc reflects growth and maturity as he learns to accept and celebrate Lyle’s uniqueness. Josh’s genuine care for Lyle and his ability to see the beauty in what makes Lyle different drives the emotional core of the story.

• Lyle (voiced by Shawn Mendes): Lyle is an incredibly lovable and charming character, whose vocal talent is the heart of the film. As a CGI-animated crocodile, Lyle is full of personality, even without speaking much. His vocal performances, which are provided by Shawn Mendes, add an emotional and uplifting layer to the film. Lyle’s character is gentle, kind, and humorous, and he quickly becomes a companion that both Josh and the audience can root for.

• Mr. Grumps (Brett Gelman): Mr. Grumps, the antagonistic neighbor, adds a comedic element to the film. His grumpy, skeptical personality provides much of the film’s conflict, especially as he becomes obsessed with discovering the truth about Lyle. Despite his antagonism, Mr. Grumps is ultimately shown to have a soft side, adding a layer of complexity to his character.

• The Primm Family: The Primm family, including Josh’s parents played by Constance Wu and Scoot McNairy, are supportive and loving figures in Josh’s life. The parents, particularly, embody the importance of embracing their child’s friendships and helping them navigate the challenges of life in a big city. Their understanding and acceptance of Lyle also play an important role in the film’s themes of love and acceptance.

Themes – Friendship, Acceptance, and the Magic of Music

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is not only a fun-filled adventure, but it also conveys powerful themes that resonate with viewers of all ages.

• Friendship: At its core, the movie is about the bond between Josh and Lyle. Their friendship serves as a reminder of the value of companionship, regardless of how different the other person (or crocodile) may be. Lyle’s ability to connect with Josh, even though he is a crocodile, is a heartwarming message about the importance of building relationships and supporting each other.

• Self-Acceptance: Lyle’s journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance. He struggles with hiding his true self, but over time, he learns that he doesn’t have to change to fit in. This message is crucial, especially for young viewers, as it encourages them to embrace who they are and not to be afraid of standing out.

• The Power of Music: Music is another central theme in the film, and Lyle’s singing abilities play a vital role in driving the story forward. The soundtrack, which includes catchy and heartfelt songs, is an essential part of the movie’s emotional impact. Lyle’s performances are not just entertaining, but they also symbolize his unique voice and the importance of finding one’s own expression in a world that may not always understand you.

Music – Shawn Mendes’ Unforgettable Performance

One of the standout aspects of Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is its musical numbers. The soundtrack is filled with catchy, energetic tunes that elevate the emotional moments of the film. The music, composed by Justin Paul and Benj Pasek (famous for their work on La La Land and The Greatest Showman), is a delightful addition to the movie.

Shawn Mendes, who voices Lyle, also provides the vocals for the film’s musical performances. His voice brings a magical quality to the character, and his musical numbers are some of the most memorable moments in the film. Songs like “Top of the World” and “Together We Can” are upbeat, joyful tracks that capture the spirit of the film and its positive message.

The music adds an extra layer of magic to the story, and it’s clear that it plays a key role in making Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile an engaging and emotionally resonant film for all audiences.

Cinematography and Animation – A Beautiful Blend of Live-Action and CGI

The film’s visuals are another strong point, with the blend of live-action and CGI animation creating a seamless and visually appealing experience. Lyle’s animation is remarkably expressive, capturing the essence of his personality and allowing him to convey emotions despite being a crocodile. The attention to detail in Lyle’s movements and expressions adds depth to his character, making him feel lifelike and relatable.

The settings, from the bustling streets of New York City to the cozy interiors of the Primm family’s apartment, are beautifully shot and add to the warm, inviting atmosphere of the film.

Conclusion – A Delightful Family Film Full of Heart and Music

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a heartwarming and entertaining film that delivers on both emotional depth and family-friendly fun. The film’s themes of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery are beautifully portrayed through the bond between Josh and Lyle, and the music and animation add an extra layer of magic to the experience. With a fantastic voice cast, catchy songs, and an endearing protagonist in Lyle, this movie is sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages.

Whether you’re a fan of the original book or just looking for a feel-good family movie, Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a must-watch. It’s a magical tale that reminds us all of the importance of embracing our uniqueness and finding the courage to sing our own song.