Gnomeo & Juliet

Gnomeo & Juliet is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus, and it uses the format for more than just a visual hook. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. With 2,092 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. Watch it in order — the character development is cumulative. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Gnomeo & Juliet arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. The look of Gnomeo & Juliet gets people in the door, but the writing is what keeps them there. A version of Shakespeare's play, set in the world of warring indoor and outdoor gnomes. Garden gnomes Gnomeo and Juliet have as many obstacles to overcome as their quasi namesakes when they are caught up in a feud between neighbors. But with plastic pink flamingos and lawnmower races in the mix, can this young couple find lasting happiness? Every line from James McAvoy and Emily Blunt lands with more craft than you'd expect. It hit screens in 2011. Gnomeo & Juliet uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

If you have been sleeping on Gnomeo & Juliet because of the format, the format is not the issue here. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single evening. The writing operates at a level the format's reputation does not fully prepare you for. Adult animation that actually works for adults.