I have always loved this Maurice Sendak’s work. Being an artist, you just have to appreciate his beautiful illustrations. Where the Wild Things Are has been one of my all time favorite stories since a child, so you can imagine how happy I was when the film came out in 2009. The fact that Spike Jonze directed it was a bonus as well. I could not have been happier with how it turned out.

The film revolves around a lonely boy named Max, who has a wild imagination. One night he runs away after his mother yells at him and finds a small boat in a pond. Seeking new adventure, he hops on and arrives at an island where large creatures call home. It’s here he meets the Wild Things. He convinces them he is a king with magical powers and claims he can bring peace to the group, as they all have anger issues. They soon crown him king and the adventure begins.

The incidents that happen during the time on the island is a tale of truth and realization. They mimic Max’s daily life at home and how he has been acting and feeling. Eventually, he comes to realize this and decides to leave and go back to his family. The film is a heartfelt and youthful adaption of the book and the characters truly become alive on screen. It’s enough to make anyone feel young again and remember the days when being wild and free were so easy.

The color palette is earthy and subdued with neutrals being the main focus. Most scenes are shot outside so nature is incorporated a lot. Lighting really enables the scenes to shine, creating an intimate backdrop for the plot to unfold, as times of day are accented greatly. After I saw this film, I wished a small boat would take me to a far away land. A place where I can be wild and free and the adventures are endless. It proves there is a wild thing in all of us.