Synopsis: Based on Lesya Ukraina’s play, ‘Lisova Pisyna (Forest Song), Mavka is a forest nymph-soul of the forest. She is torn between duty and love after meeting and falling in love with Lukash a talented musician.
I am only commenting on the English dub of this film. I am aware the film exists in native Ukranian however, I don’t have access to that version.
The highlights are the beautiful animation and the music.
- The various character designs were simple yet different enough to to distinguish characters apart. (forest creatures and nymphs).
- The 2-d backstory sequence was well-crafted going for a minimalist approach.
- Dario Vero is in charge of the music score mixing Ukrainian folk music with a couple ballads such as “Forest Song” by Khrystyna Soloviy and “Language of the Wind” by Pivovarov & Khrystyna Soloviy
- Mavka is a forest nymph with power such as weather manipulation, shapeshifting, and healing.
- The movie’s plot reminds me of the Fantasia 2000 segment:Firebird, Fern Gully, and Princess Mononoke, and Secret of Kells.
- The filmhas such a vast world which could lend itself to an animated series or animated shorts.
- The dialogue can be choppy at times.
- The villian’s sidekick could’ve been cut out.
Final Thoughts: While not a perfect movie, Mavka: The Forest Song is an enjoyable movie with gorgeous animation and melodic music score.