Mavka: The Forest Song
By Jennifer Borget,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Animated Ukrainian fairy tale has some peril, scary moments.
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Mavka: The Forest Song
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Based on 1 parent review
What's the Story?
Set against an enchanting backdrop, MAVKA: THE FOREST SONG revolves around a legendary tree with magical healing powers hidden within an enchanted forest. The story unfolds as a wealthy sawmill owner tries to use its magic to cure his ailing daughter. But his greed triggers a conflict between humans and the woodland beings, causing a devastating fire and a divide between their worlds. Amid this tension, Mavka (voiced by Laurie Hymes), a benevolent forest nymph, helps Lucas (voiced by Eddy Lee), a village musician, on a quest to save his uncle. As they navigate their destinies, a sinister woman named Kylina (Sarah Natochenny) threatens to take the tree's power. Mavka's rise to become the new forest guardian and her new friendship with Lucas sparks hope for harmony between the two worlds. But will it be enough? As the story unfolds, the dwellers in both realms must learn to let go of judgments and find the power in unity.
Is It Any Good?
Watching Mavka: The Forest Song feels like watching a version of Tangled meets FernGully. The Ukrainian animated film blends elements of familiar fairy tales with a unique cultural twist. The film is set in an enchanted forest inhabited by mystical creatures and ancient trees. Mavka is the guardian of the forest, a role that brings both privilege and jealousy among her fellow nymphs. The story takes an interesting turn when Kylina, a cruel and vain villain, sets out to harness the forest's heart for eternal youth. In the middle of all this, Mavka develops an unexpected connection with Lucas, a village musician, which threatens to disrupt the delicate balance between the human and mystical realms.
Though predictable, the film is beautifully animated. It offers positive messages about environmentalism, giving others a chance, and what can happen when two sides decide to work together for the greater good.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the relationship between humans and nature. Can you think of ways that people and animals interact in the real world? How can this story relate to our own world and the importance of taking care of nature?
In this movie, we see how far Kylina is willing to go for her physical appearance. What do you think the filmmakers are trying to tell us about valuing outward appearances? Do you agree with the movie's message? How can we balance taking care of ourselves while also respecting nature and others?
Have you ever seen other movies or read books with similar themes of friendship and protecting the environment? How does this movie compare to those?
If you could create your own magical forest, what kind of creatures and plants would you include? What adventures would happen there?
Why do you think Mavka is chosen as the new forest guardian? What qualities make her a good protector of the forest?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: August 15, 2023
- Cast: Laurie Hymes , Nataliya Denisenko , Eddy Lee , Sarah Natochenny
- Directors: Oleh Malamuzh , Oleksandra Ruban
- Inclusion Information: Asian actors, Female actors
- Studio: Shout! Factory
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy , Fairy Tales
- Character Strengths: Courage , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time: 82 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: November 23, 2023
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