Kipo

Kipo is a 2020 American animated science fiction action-adventure film produced by DreamWorks Animation. Directed by Jon Chu and written by Jennifer Yuh Nelson, the film is based on the 2017 graphic novel *Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts* by Dexter Soy, which was adapted into a comic book series by Boom! Studios. The story follows Kipo, a young girl living in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been forced to adapt to survive after a mysterious event known as the Collapse.

The film explores themes of resilience, environmentalism, and the consequences of human actions on nature. Kipo and her friends—her brother, Kuni, and her pet, a genetically engineered creature called a Wonderbeast—embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind the Collapse and find a way to restore their world. Along the way, they encounter various factions, including the militaristic New Order and the nomadic, eco-conscious Free Folk, who live in harmony with the mutated wildlife.

Kipo is notable for its diverse cast, featuring predominantly Asian and Pacific Islander characters, which reflects the graphic novel’s origins. The animation style blends vibrant colors with a gritty, post-apocalyptic aesthetic, emphasizing both the beauty and harshness of the world. The film also incorporates elements of fantasy and adventure, with Kipo’s Wonderbeast, a small, intelligent creature, playing a key role in her quest.

The movie received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its animation and themes but criticism for its pacing and underdeveloped plot. It was released theatrically in the United States on November 20, 2020, and later became available on streaming platforms. While it did not achieve major commercial success, it gained a cult following among fans of animated adventure films and graphic novel adaptations.