ThisIsBigCat’s review published on Letterboxd:
The Wild Robot represents an effort from DreamWorks to become a more prestigious name in the animation industry, garnering the same level of critical respect as Pixar. DreamWorks has been frustratingly inconsistent over the years, so it's a big deal whenever they release a film with serious quality.
Rather than being a market-tested comedy, The Wild Robot comes in with a clear purpose and a story that ionate people want to tell. It touches on deeper themes beyond environmentalism. The film tackles nature vs. technology, parenting, and acceptance. There are also some noticeable influences from Miyazaki, albeit superficially. Despite these artistic strides, the film was held back by market/studio pressure to be accessible to families, hence why some of the dialogue and humor are in line with typical Western animated movies.
I once hoped DreamWorks would have a renaissance after Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. But after the disappointment that was Kung Fu Panda 4. my attitude has changed. I just hope DreamWorks will continue to move in this direction as they could unlock something special.
