Shout-out to Humphrey for recommending today’s topic!

It is disappointing when we get told we can’t do something for some arbitrary reason, it is even more disappointing when it is because of who we are. What better feeling emerges when we finally do beat those odds, defy expectations, and become the people we are truly meant to be? In 2010, a film explored the lives of wolves who themselves were exploring a similar issue but whose journey would have them question who they are of Alpha and Omega.

The film initially follows the tribal politics of a pack of wolves. Kate is an Alpha, and Humphry is an Omega. Like Romeo and Juliet, their classes mean they’re never meant to be, no matter how much Humphry pines for Kate. Kate, however, is duty-bound to marry, Garth for the good of the pack, during a troubled hunting season. Although an Alpha, he might not be right for Kate. Things get complicated as both Kate and Humphry get relocated down south for a repopulation program. The duo must make their way back north to their original home, braving all sorts of adversities to get back home.

The character designs are expressive and fluid enough to capture the characters’ emotions well and to win the hearts of younger and older viewers. We’ve had a few years to get over the rise of 3.D. animation, yet Alpha and Omega show how far we’ve come. There are times when the films shine especially strong, such as the moonlit howl-athon that works well both because of the pretty landscape, and the intriguing sound of the animals in motion. Sure, it is a touchstone on an ever-increasing medium and both visuals and sound are only going to get better and better as time goes on. But it works to Alpha and Omega’s strengths to see how tandem the two can be.

You’ll recognise a lot of the core cast from other projects, Justin Long can dodge dodgeballs and imbues Humphry with enough playful energy for a role like this. Nashville’s own Hayden Panettiere voices Kate, the pride of the alphas. Yellowjacket’s own Christina Ricci voices Lily, Kate’s sister, and Dennis Hopper and Danny Glover lend some credence to the older wolves too. It is a strong cast that helps to give the comedic adventure some pathos and help it stand on its own against competition like Madagascar and other similar animal animated films.

Alpha and Omega is another animated animal adventure that will probably win over younger viewers while entertaining the older ones who are also along for the ride. While competition is Fierce for animated entertainment, and grows by the day. Alpha and Omega have spawned an impressive dynasty, and watching the film, it is pretty easy to see why. Success is on the horizon for these wolves and certainly isn’t just the beginning or the end.

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