Directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg, The BFG is a cinematic adaptation of the much-loved Roald Dahl book. The story revolves around Sophie, a ten year old orphan who forms an unlikely friendship with the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) after spotting him frolicking across London. In a twist of events, the giant abducts her and whisks her away to Giant Country, insisting that their existence must remain a secret. He even crafts nightmares to deter her from attempting escape.
However, Sophie eventually persuades the amiable giant to take her to Dream Country, where they engage in the whimsical activity of catching both good and bad dreams. As their bond strengthens, Sophie accompanies The BFG on his nocturnal work in London, which involves delivering pleasant dreams to slumbering children.
But trouble brews when The BFG realises that the other giants have discovered Sophie’s presence and are on the prowl for her.
It then falls upon The BFG and Sophie to devise a strategy to prevent the other giants from devouring children and to exile them to a distant land.
The 2016 film boasts a stellar cast, with Mark Rylance brilliantly portraying the Big Friendly Giant, rendered unrecognisable through the magic of CGI.
Ruby Barnhill was cast as Sophie, while Bill Hader played Bloodbottler and Jemaine Clement embodied Fleshlumpeater. The film has garnered a rating of 74% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics and viewers expressing mixed reviews.
One vocal critic remarked that The BFG was “too big, too friendly and too giant” while another insisted: “The BFG is a delightful fantasy, one all associated with the film should be proud of, the end result an enchanting journey of resilience and imagination the likes of which dreams are born from.”
Yet, another viewer’s disappointment was evident as they pointed out the film “fell very flat” and “didn’t pan out right on screen”.
Conversely, an enthusiast gushed: “One of my favs! It’s heartwarming, magical, fun and visually groundbreaking.”
For those eager to watch The BFG, it is currently streaming on Sky Cinema and NOW. After delving into The BFG’s world, viewers can segue into Wonka.
This spellbinding 2023 musical fantasy stars Timothée Chalamet as a youthful Willy Wonka, documenting his chocolate-tinged escapades and the trials he faces in opening his own confectionery store, all while navigating rivalries that threaten his chocolaty ambitions.
For the little ones, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie is also up for streaming delight. The plotline teases: “When a magical meteor gives the PAW Patrol pups superpowers, they become the Mighty Pups and must stop their arch-rival Humdinger and a mad scientist from causing chaos.”