9/10
Beautiful Message for Children: Wonderful Family Movie.
19 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I'm a big fan of "Steven Universe". I first got into the show because I love the fantasy/sci-fi genre, and "Steven Universe" engages the viewer in a rich world that serves as a platform for the creators' worldview: people must be free to find themselves as individuals, and use their unique talents to in turn help others. Another great message from the show is that it's always a good idea to empathize with even those who hate you, or who would use violence against you. Understand the point of view of the other side, and see if you disengage a conflict by using dialogue. They're beautiful messages, really. This is a deep cartoon, with rich world-building and vivid animation.

These qualities are transferred to the film. I highly recommend parents watch this movie with their children. There's little here that grown-ups will find objectionable. The protagonist, the eponymous Steven Universe, will show children the value of empathy in conflict resolution and in building friendships. The problem with this message is that not all bad people can be reasoned with, but I think it's an important cognitive step for children to learn as they go through life and interact with other people.

The movie also has a quirky charm that will no doubt delight old and new fans alike. The new character Spinel plays a big part in this film's appeal, and this is no doubt buoyed by the character's voice actress, theater veteran Sarah Stiles. Her talents (especially notable in the singing segments) bring a shining theatricality that is missing from most children's media.

Some negatives: even if you empathize and engage in dialogue with others, not everyone can be reasoned with. Even thoughts film evokes pathos and sympathy for this film's antagonist (I was almost brought to tears a few times), it does not excuse her wicked behavior, and I think she gets away with her bad deeds with almost no consequences. With that in mind, this is a positive film with a great message for children.
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