Wallace & Gromit, the iconic duo of British animation, have returned to the screen with their new film, "Vengeance Most Fowl," premiering on Christmas Day 2023. The film continues their long-standing tradition of imaginative storytelling, mixed with humor and heart, marking another chapter for the beloved inventor and his clever canine companion.
Nick Park, the mastermind behind Wallace & Gromit and the executive director at Aardman Animations, has expressed pride over the legacy of these characters, saying, "There's a timeless quality to it." This new outing suggests Wallace's latest inventions may lead him astray as he becomes increasingly dependent on them, proving Gromit's worries to be justified when his newest creation, a "smart" gardening gnome called Norbot, begins to exhibit sinister behavior. This leads to speculation about whether Wallace is losing his touch or if something more malignant is occurring.
Adding to the charm of this new film, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl introduces Ben Whitehead as the new voice of Wallace, replacing the late Peter Sallis, who voiced the character since the series began with "A Grand Day Out" in 1989. Whitehead has previously voiced Wallace in video games and commercials and noted the importance of respecting the character's rich history, saying, "I did step inside someone else's shoes for this role... I could never hope to fill them." His experience has informed his performance, embracing the nuances of Wallace as he navigates another comedic adventure.
The film promises to deliver the same stop-motion magic fans have come to expect from the franchise. For over three decades, Aardman Animations has captivated global audiences with their painstakingly crafted animation techniques. With Wallace's world grounded in homemade contraptions and odd inventions, "Vengeance Most Fowl" weaves together elements of humor and creativity. "I think that's nice. I think that's believable. It's very real," Whitehead remarked on the authenticity embedded within Wallace's quirky universe.
Produced with both nostalgia and innovation, the film integrates newer technologies, such as injectable silicone, to provide enhanced animations, contrasting the original plasticine methods used throughout earlier productions. These innovations not only modernize the animation process but also keep the aesthetic close to the original charm of Wallace & Gromit's art style, which Park describes so fondly.
Alongside Whitehead, the film features comedic talents including Peter Kay as Chief Inspector Albert Mackintosh, Reece Shearsmith as the mischievous Norbot, and Diane Morgan as the ambitious news reporter Onya Doorstep. The ensemble cast backs Wallace and Gromit as they unravel the comedic chaos resulting from Wallace's latest invention, which inadvertently links back to the dastardly Feathers McGraw, the scheming penguin, who makes his return with vengeful intentions.
"Vengeance Most Fowl" is not just another episode; it is positioned as both a continuation and celebration of the long-standing series. The film explores whether Wallace can shake off his reliance on modern technology and uphold the charming, slapstick-based comedy which has defined the franchise. Park humorously acknowledged the actual technology used, laughing, "You learn you can't get too attached. The important thing is these characters exist on film."
Even with global streaming and advanced animation techniques, "Vengeance Most Fowl" holds true to Aardman's work ethics, ensuring the animation remains handcrafted. The film runs for 79 merry minutes, featuring visual gags, playful references, and the kind of detail fans have come to adore. With so much care and humor threaded through the adventure, the film affirms the enduring appeal of Wallace & Gromit.
Finally, the film aired on BBC One and was available for free streaming on BBC iPlayer from Christmas Day, 2023, with plans for international release on Netflix starting January 3, 2024. Audiences around the world can celebrate the joys of this delightful duo, proving high-quality animation will always find its audience, no matter the advancements of time.
