Stories focusing on myths and legends of yore have always been fascinating to everybody. It’s not that we are simply familiar with these stories before watching their adaptations, but rather the scent of nostalgia and adventure they bring.
There are hundreds of such stories out there, such as the Genie in the Lamp, Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves, and of course; Sinbad. Sinbad is one of the most iconic characters in the history of myths, and the DreamWorks produced animated film does justice not just to the character, but to the legend of the Seven Seas.
How to Stream or Download Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas
You can stream it or you can download the film from a digital store. Click on the Download button at the end of this review and make your choice. If you like One Thousand and One Nights stories, check out also our review of Aladdin.
The Movie Review
Sinbad is a rough and gruff, ignorer of the rules pirate. He wants nothing more in life than to be rich, and find safe haven for himself and his crew to live off the rest of their lives. However, his best friend is quite literally the opposite. His best friend Prince Proteus is the heir to the throne and protector of the Book of Peace.
When the Goddess Eris frames Sinbad for stealing the Book of Peace, Proteus lays down his life in order to save his friend. Of course, Sinbad can’t have this. In order to save Proteus, Sinbad must travel the ends of the earth in Tartarus to secure the Book of Peace.
The first and most important thing I remember about this movie was that it was fun to watch. I cannot say that I enjoyed any other DreamWorks film as much as Sinbad. There’s just constant excitement on screen, there’s so much humor that you will be smiling indefinitely throughout it’s run time.
The characters are perfectly fleshed out and their conversations are organic. It just feels like you’re watching a deeply personal story, with characters who truly know each other.
This organic style of conversation in the film wouldn’t really be possible if it wasn’t for the fantastic voice acting here. None of the actors here skip a beat, each and every one of them fulfils their roles perfectly. However, more than most, Brad Pitt as Sinbad stands out the most.
He brings such an infectious charm to this character that it is impossible to hate him. Although, somehow Michelle Pfeiffer beats him as the most charming character in this film.
Eris is by far one of the most cunning characters in the animated film catalogue. Her whole character Is meant to be a seductive, manipulative vixen who makes Sinbad do her bidding.
Of course, no animated film is complete without a fantastic art style to back it up. Fortunately, in the case of Sinbad, the art design team brought their A-Game. This film incorporates 2D and 3D together, not just in backgrounds but also in action. There are 3D models that work alongside the 2D characters, and that makes this film ethereally beautiful. This is by far DreamWorks’ most beautiful looking film, with a jaw-dropping color palette and art style that can rival even the best of Disney.
Of course the music has to be satisfying too, and for the most part, this film has some decent music. The main theme in the film is very memorable, it also elevates the film’s free-spirited characters’ personalities.
It essentially sets the tone for the voyage they’re about to have, and then there are also tunes for moments more perilous. Harry Gregson-Williams composes a solid soundtrack that does it’s job well.
The Bottom Line
Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas Is quite literally the purest definition of fun. So that doesn’t hinder it from showcasing thematic nuances in an animated film. It showcases Marina and her quest for freedom, it shows Sinbad’s growth as a responsible human, and it also showcases Proteus and how far he is willing to go for those he loves.
This is a film for the whole family, but if you’re a 90s kid looking to revisit, then it’s probably even better for you!
