“Spirit Untamed” (Universal)
By Catholic News Service
After her antics become too much for the aunt (voice of Julianne Moore) and grandfather (voice of Joe Hart) by whom she’s been raised, a rebellious city-bred girl (voice of Isabela Merced) is sent off to the small frontier town where her risk-loving mother’s (voice of Eiza Gonzalez) career as a stunt rider was cut short by a fatal accident and where her still-grieving dad (voice of Jake Gyllenhaal) continues to live. There, she makes friends with two denizens of the local rodeo (voices of Marsai Martin and Mckenna Grace) as well as with the mustang of the title and together the pals work to liberate a group of wild horses being held captive by a villainous set of wranglers.
In extending a franchise that also includes the 2002 film “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” and the Netflix series “Spirit Riding Free,” director Elaine Bogan and co-director Ennio Torresan Jr. have crafted a visually stunning, family-friendly animated adventure that highlights the importance of friendship, teamwork, respect for nature, education and love of family and that can be recommended for all but small fry, who might find its action scenes too frightening.
Perilous situations. The Catholic News Service classification is A-I — general patronage. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.
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