For those familiar with Gulliver’s Travels, particularly the version starring Ted Danson, prepare for a delightful surprise. Jack Black’s rendition of Gulliver’s Travels is a world apart, catapulting the classic story into the 21st century with a contemporary twist that’s as hilarious as it is imaginative. This isn’t your typical period piece; it’s a vibrant, modern adventure anchored by Jack Black’s signature comedic style.
The film cleverly grounds us in the present day right from the start. Gulliver, portrayed by Black, is not a ship’s surgeon but a mailroom employee navigating the complexities of modern life, complete with smartphones and internet access. Dissatisfied with his mundane existence at the New York Tribune, he yearns for more – a connection with travel writer Darcy and a chance to step into the world of real journalism.
In a relatable nod to the digital age, Gulliver leverages the internet to embellish his resume, a move that unexpectedly lands him an assignment to the infamous Bermuda Triangle. This sets the stage for a fantastical journey as Gulliver is swept into another dimension in a visually exciting sequence. He soon finds himself in Lilliput, echoing the adventures of previous Gulliver interpretations, but with a decidedly comedic lens.
Lilliput in this Gulliver’s Travels is a fully realized nation, populated by miniature people living in a world scaled down to their size. The royal castle is impressively grand, towering over the Lilliputian citizens. The city teems with diverse inhabitants, and a sprawling countryside extends beyond its borders. Intriguingly, Lilliput is not without its conflicts, engaging in wars with neighboring nations of equally diminutive people.
Gulliver’s acceptance into Lilliputian society hinges on his unexpected valor in battle. Displaying his giant strength, he becomes a hero, earning the respect and admiration of the tiny populace. It’s here that the movie truly embraces its comedic nature, weaving in a tapestry of pop culture references drawn from Gulliver’s own movie-watching experiences. Familiar elements from blockbuster films begin to manifest in Lilliput, creating humorous and anachronistic scenarios. Imagine a giant, battle-ready robot, a whimsical amalgamation of R2-D2 from “Star Wars” and “Transformers,” deployed in combat – a direct result of Gulliver’s video game design concepts.
Amidst the fantastical backdrop, a more traditional subplot unfolds. The prisoner Horatio and the ambitious Edward compete for the affections of Princess Mary. Horatio’s fortunes take a turn for the better when Gulliver champions his cause, highlighting themes of friendship and loyalty within this extraordinary setting.
One scene involving Mary’s kidnapping might initially seem jarring, but it’s intentionally crafted with a blend of clever writing and committed performances. The acting throughout the movie is surprisingly competent, especially given the comedic tone. The actors navigate the sometimes absurd material with a straight face, enhancing the overall humor.
A curious plot point arises regarding Gulliver’s modern connectivity. While his cell service understandably disappears as he approaches the Bermuda Triangle, he inexplicably receives missed voicemails after crossing into the Lilliputian dimension. This detail, seemingly a minor inconsistency, actually becomes a significant plot device, hinting at an unexpected twist later in the narrative.
The battle sequences in Gulliver’s Travels are surprisingly dynamic and engaging, reminiscent of action scenes from popular superhero TV shows. Even Horatio gets caught up in the action, adding another layer to the unfolding events.
The film also features a charming scene in the “real world” where Gulliver encounters a little girl who appears gigantic to him after his time in Lilliput. This cleverly reverses perspective, prompting reflection on scale and perception.
Adding to the film’s lightheartedness is a full-fledged musical number, unexpectedly well-executed and performed by the entire cast. The musical choice leans towards classic rock, a departure from typical teen-centric movie soundtracks, which might resonate with a broader audience.
While Gulliver’s Travels (2010) may not be a strictly faithful adaptation of Jonathan Swift’s literary masterpiece, it carves its own niche as an enjoyable and well-made comedic adventure. It’s not aiming for literary profundity, but rather for entertainment. If you appreciate Jack Black’s brand of humor and enjoy a modern, whimsical take on a classic story, this Gulliver’s Travels is likely to be a delightful cinematic journey.
