Watch The Sea Beast

The Sea Beast is an animated adventure film released in 2022 with a runtime of 115 minutes, directed by Chris Williams, known for his work on "Moana" and "Big Hero 6." The movie captivates audiences with its stunning animation, riveting story, and heartwarming characters, delivering a fresh take on the classic monster-hunting tale and elevating it to a family-friendly spectacle.

Set in an era where terrifying beasts roam the seas, humanity relies on brave hunters to protect their coastal cities and trade routes. Among the mightiest of these legendary hunters is the storied Captain Crow, voiced by Jared Harris. Under his command is the ferocious and dedicated Jacob Holland, played by Karl Urban, who has garnered a reputation as one of the most skilled and fearless fighters upon the high seas. Jacob's life is dedicated to the pursuit and slaying of the monstrous leviathans that threaten human life, following in the footsteps of the hunters who have become his family and idols.

One day, their paths collide with Maisie Brumble, voiced by Zaris-Angel Hator—a headstrong and curious young orphan girl who has grown up idolizing the monster hunters and yearning for adventure beyond the confines of her mundane existence. Maisie dreams of proving herself as a hunter and will stop at nothing to follow in the footsteps of her heroes. In an unexpected twist of fate, Maisie stows away on Captain Crow's legendary ship, The Inevitable, launching herself into the thrilling life she's always dreamt of but quickly discovering the perils and responsibilities that come with it.

The Sea Beast takes audiences on an exciting high-seas adventure as Captain Crow's crew navigates treacherous waters, engages in epic battles with colossal sea monsters, and confronts the mysteries of the deep. Each encounter is rendered with breathtaking animation and visual effects, creating immersive battles that fill the screen with tension and excitement. The character designs are evocative and memorable, and the film uses its animation prowess to craft creatures that are both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

Jacob's relationship with Maisie becomes the emotional core of the film. Initially resistant to the idea of a child aboard his dangerous missions, Jacob's gruff exterior is gradually softened by the girl's determination and spirit. Maisie, meanwhile, learns the stark reality of the hunter's life, grappling with the concept of what monsters represent and what it means to slay them. The dynamic between them grows, offering moments of levity, growth, and a developing bond that plays out in the face of action-packed circumstances.

The narrative layers in themes of heroism, myths, and the moral ambiguities of the hunter's life. It challenges the established norms within its world, calling into question the stories handed down through generations, and encouraging viewers to think critically about the nature of legends and the truth behind them. It is a tale that champions curiosity, understanding, and the recognition that the world may not always be as black and white as the stories suggest.

The film's score complements the visuals and narrative expertly, providing an auditory landscape that matches the epic scale of the oceanic battles and the intimate moments of character development. Each piece of music enhances the mood, driving home the excitement of adventure and the emotional stakes that accompany the characters on their journey.

Moreover, The Sea Beast does not shy away from exploring deeper emotional undercurrents. It touches on themes of family—both found and blood—and discusses notions of purpose and destiny. The bonds between characters are tested and forged stronger through trials, creating an emotionally resonant story that offers lessons on trust, teamwork, and the strength found in unity.

Audiences across a broad spectrum, from young children to adults, can find something to enjoy and take away from The Sea Beast. For kids, it's a thrilling, colorful odyssey filled with action and wonder. For older viewers, the film presents complex themes wrapped in a palatable and engaging story that can provoke thought and conversation. At no point does the film talk down to its audience; rather, it strives to uplift and involve them in a world where understanding one another, overcoming fear, and forging your own path are celebrated values.

The Sea Beast is a voyage into a world of high adventure, packed with action, humor, and heart. It stands out as an enthralling addition to the family animation genre, appealing to a wide audience with its universal messages, masterful storytelling, and captivating aesthetic. It is a movie that reminds us of the magic of animated cinema and the power stories have to shape our perceptions, inspire us, and bring us together.

The Sea Beast is a 2022 animated movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 59 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 74.