Netflix’s new animated coming-of-age musical “Leo” takes a charmingly clichéd approach to some classic life lessons, but the execution is so endearing that even the most skeptical viewers will find themselves drawn to the film’s titular reptile. Voiced by the iconic Adam Sandler, Leo is a lizard who has called a classroom his home for nearly 80 years. Observing the revolving door of angsty fifth-graders and their anxious parents, Leo has seen it all, from the days of mohawks to the current era of smartphones dominating the classroom.
The film is set in Fort Myer Elementary School in Florida and follows Leo’s unique perspective on the lives of the students. Leo’s world is turned upside down when he overhears a conversation during parent-teacher conferences that implies he is reaching the end of his lifespan. Inspired by this revelation, Leo embarks on a quest to make the most of what he believes will be his final year.
While the story and setting are conventional, the life lessons and emotional depth of the film set it apart. The timing of the message is particularly relevant to a generation grappling with parental pressures and looming global issues. Leo encourages adults to let go and reassures kids that growing up doesn’t have to be scary.
The film begins with a delightful ensemble song marking the start of the school year and the news of Ms. Salinas’s (Allison Strong) pregnancy. This news throws her class into disarray, especially her daughter Jayda (Sadie Sandler), who schemes to make life difficult for the substitute teacher, Ms. Malkin (Cecily Strong). However, when the students discover that Leo can speak, their perspective changes – particularly for Summer (Sunny Sandler), who forms a unique bond with the lizard and begins confiding in him.
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Each week, Leo offers advice to the students who take him home. These vignettes offer light-hearted humor and touch on the stresses of modern parenting. As Leo helps the kids navigate their struggles, he learns to find purpose in his own existence by providing the support and understanding they need, echoing their mutual moments of uncertainty and growth.
Adam Sandler’s voice work and comedic timing bring depth and sensitivity to Leo’s character, making him the heart and soul of the film. Along with a solid animation style and lively theatrical music, the film sustains an engaging narrative that transcends the generational gap. With the added touch of Sandler’s daughters providing exceptional voice work, “Leo” feels like a charmingly personal family project.
At its core, “Leo” is a heartfelt portrayal of shared experiences and growing pains experienced by fifth graders, highlighting themes of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery. The film reminds audiences of the universal need for understanding and the common fears faced by children stepping into adolescence.
Overall, “Leo” strikes a delicate balance between comedy and touching life lessons, creating an endearing and relatable story. With its charming characters, insightful humor, and timeless messages, “Leo” is a heartwarming addition to Netflix’s animated offerings, appealing to both young audiences and nostalgic adults alike.
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