Where the Wild Things Are
Max imagines running away from his mom and sailing to a far-off land where large talking beasts—Ira, Carol, Douglas, the Bull, Judith and Alexander—crown him as their king, play rumpus, build forts and discover secret hideaways.
Critics Sentiment
Max declares a wild rumpus and all dance together wildly
Carol tears off Douglas's arm during an angry tantrum
The film drops sharply from the joyful wild rumpus peak to Carol's disturbing violent tantrum, a 3.6 point decline that many reviewers found jarring
Critics found Where the Wild Things Are to be a visually stunning but emotionally challenging adaptation that peaks during the celebratory wild rumpus sequence before descending into darker territory. While praised for its authentic portrayal of childhood psychology and impressive creature effects, many reviewers were divided on its melancholy tone and stretched runtime. The film ultimately redeems itself with a touching conclusion that resonated with most critics.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 32
Max Records
Max
Catherine Keener
Mom
James Gandolfini
Carol (voice)
Lauren Ambrose
KW (voice)
Catherine O'Hara
Judith (voice)
Forest Whitaker
Ira (voice)
Chris Cooper
Douglas (voice)
Paul Dano
Alexander (voice)
Spike Jonze
Bob (voice) / Terry (voice)
Pepita Emmerichs
Claire
Mark Ruffalo
The Boyfriend
Max Pfeifer
Claire's Friend
Madeleine Greaves
Claire's Friend
Joshua Jay
Claire's Friend
Ryan Corr
Claire's Friend
Steve Mouzakis
Teacher
Michael Berry Jr.
The Bull (voice)
Vincent Crowley
Carol Suit Performer
Sonny Gerasimowicz
Alexander Suit Performer
Nick Farnell
Judith Suit Performer
Crew
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