Chris Pratt, widely recognized for his live-action roles such as Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy and Owen Grady in the Jurassic World series, has also made a significant impact in the realm of animated films. Notable performances include his roles as Mario and Garfield in recent cinematic adaptations, along with Barley Lightfoot in Pixar’s Onward. Notably, his journey in voice acting began about eleven years ago, establishing a strong foundation in this category.
The Lego Movie exemplifies how a film inspired by existing intellectual property (IP) can not only succeed but also deliver a uniquely original narrative. This film has influenced a wave of similar projects centered around beloved toys and game franchises, and it continues to rank among Chris Pratt’s finest performances. Its legacy as a standout adaptation remains unchallenged long after its debut.
Chris Pratt Voiced the Average LEGO Figure Emmet in The Lego Movie
Emmet: The Heart of The Lego Movie
Distinct from characters like Mario and Garfield, Emmet was conceived as an original character for The Lego Movie. His significance lies in the fact that he embodies the essence of the common LEGO minifigure that children have grown fond of over the years. While recognizable characters like Batman join the ensemble, they originate from other media, whereas Emmet’s relatability as “The Special”derives precisely from his ordinary nature.
It’s likely that Chris Pratt’s portrayal of Emmet paved the way for his future voice acting roles in classic franchises. His performance in The Lego Movie not only showcased his talent but also affirmed his capability to bring depth to iconic characters through voice work.
Comparing The Lego Movie and The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The Lego Movie: A Clever Twist on the Hero’s Journey
The Lego Movie and The Super Mario Bros. Movie share several parallels, not the least of which is Pratt’s dual involvement in voicing both lead characters. Both films are animated adaptations of beloved media that resonate with child audiences and involve protagonists embarking on a classic hero’s journey. Even characters like Lucy and Peach find themselves in comparable narrative roles.
However, The Lego Movie outshines its counterpart significantly, boasting a Rotten Tomatoes score of 96% compared to the 59% of The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Despite sharing thematic structures and nods to other franchises, the storytelling in The Lego Movie is notably more innovative and thoughtful. The extensive production period of The Lego Movie allowed for a refined narrative that resonates powerfully with viewers.
This film adeptly recognizes and subverts the traditional hero’s journey, engaging audiences in a humorous and insightful manner, while The Super Mario Bros. Movie follows more conventional storytelling methods. Notably, the unexpected transition to live-action in The Lego Movie adds layers that simply cannot be matched by its Mario counterpart.
The Lego Movie: One of Chris Pratt’s Most Memorable Performances
Emmet: A Character Full of Heart
Emmet stands out among the diverse characters in The Lego Movie, with many being far from the typical “everyday”persona. This contrast emphasizes Emmet’s identity as an average guy, especially when compared to Lucy, who seeks to elevate her persona with a cooler moniker, “Wyldstyle.”Emmet serves as a symbol of the quintessential LEGO minifigure, underscoring the charming appeal of simplicity.
What makes Emmet particularly engaging is his cheerful disposition, which remains constant even as he grapples with the world’s imperfections. His unwavering kindness and optimism play a crucial role in his effectiveness as a hero, illustrating the importance of positivity and belief in oneself and others. These qualities not only define Emmet as a stand-out character in The Lego Movie but also solidify his status as the film’s quintessential hero.