How a Gorilla's Artistic Ambition Transformed a Shopping Mall Circus Into a Sanctuary
In short: The One and Only Ivan brings a true story to life through a blend of live-action and CGI. When a captive gorilla discovers his talent for painting, he sparks a movement to secure freedom for his fellow performers, challenging the ethics of animal entertainment in a heartwarming, visually ambitious drama.
Directed by Thea Sharrock and written by Mike White, the 2020 film adapts Katherine Applegate's 2012 book. The narrative centers on Ivan, a western lowland gorilla who has spent two decades as the star attraction at a circus inside a Central Florida shopping mall. Managed by Mack, the circus features a cast of animal performers, including Stella the elephant and Bob the stray dog. The dynamic shifts when Mack acquires a baby elephant named Ruby, prompting Ivan to reflect on his own past and eventually orchestrate a plan to secure a better life for his companions.
The film's production was a multi-year endeavor, beginning with an announcement in 2014 and principal photography in 2018. The project features a notable voice cast, including Sam Rockwell as Ivan and Angelina Jolie as Stella, alongside live-action performances from Bryan Cranston and Ariana Greenblatt. Critics offered mixed to positive reviews, often highlighting the impressive visual effects created by Moving Picture Company and Method Studios. While some reviewers felt the film's approach to darker themes was uncertain, others praised its sincerity and emotional resonance regarding the realities of captivity.
Beyond its cinematic reception, the film experienced a complex distribution history. Originally slated for a theatrical release, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted it to a Disney+ exclusive in August 2020. In May 2023, the title was removed from the platform during a corporate cost-cutting initiative, sparking public backlash that led to its digital re-release in September 2023. The film remains a testament to the story of the real Ivan, whose life in captivity and eventual relocation to Zoo Atlanta serves as the foundation for this exploration of empathy, loyalty, and the pursuit of freedom.
The production also serves as a memorial to producer Allison Shearmur, who passed away in January 2018. Her influence on the project persisted, and the final work stands as a blend of fantasy and reality, utilizing characters like Henrietta the chicken and Murphy the rabbit—who are exclusive to the film—to flesh out the circus environment. By focusing on Ivan's artistic expression, the film invites viewers to consider the ethical implications of animal performance and the importance of natural habitats.
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