John Krasinski’s IF is a rare combination of animated whimsy and live-action drama, a unique blend that sets it apart from other films. Despite its star-studded cast and heartfelt intentions, the movie grapples with finding its footing, making it an intriguing watch for those who appreciate ambitious storytelling.
In IF, we follow the journey of Bea, a 12-year-old girl played by Cailey Fleming, who navigates the complexities of loss and imagination. After the death of her mother and her father’s hospitalization due to a mysterious illness, Bea moves in with her grandmother in a quaint Brooklyn neighborhood. Feeling isolated and burdened by grief, Bea encounters Cal, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, and his animated friends, Blue (voiced by Steve Carell) and Blossom (voiced by Phoebe Waller-Bridge). These characters, representations of children’s imaginary friends, seek to reconnect with the children who once imagined them.
Visually, IF is a treat. Janusz Kamiński’s cinematography beautifully captures a nostalgic, storybook-like aesthetic that gives the film a warm, inviting glow. The production design by Jess Gonchor creatively brings to life the fantastical elements, particularly in scenes set in a magical Coney Island, reimagined as a haven for forgotten imaginary friends. Michael Giacchino’s score complements the visuals, adding a layer of emotional resonance with its melancholic yet hopeful melodies.
Cailey Fleming shines as Bea, delivering a performance that balances vulnerability with strength. Ryan Reynolds adds charm and depth to Cal, blending his signature humor with moments of poignant emotion. Their interactions give the film its emotional core, making the audience invested in their journey.
Despite these strengths, IF needs help with its narrative structure. The film attempts to juggle multiple themes and storylines, resulting in a disjointed and sometimes confusing plot. While the concept of imaginary friends coming to life is intriguing, it often needs to be more developed and consistent. The film draws inspiration from Pixar classics but lacks the tight storytelling and cohesive world-building that those films master.
The supporting cast, featuring notable voices like Louis Gossett Jr., Matt Damon, and Emily Blunt, is impressive but needs to be more utilized. The multitude of characters leads to fragmented story arcs, with many not receiving the attention they deserve. This scattering of focus detracts from the overall narrative, leaving the audience with a sense of missed potential.
Moreover, the film’s attempt to balance whimsical fantasy with darker, more serious themes sometimes feels jarring. The transitions between lighthearted moments and heavier emotional scenes are not always smooth, creating a tonal inconsistency that disrupts the viewing experience. While IF strives to address themes of loss, imagination, and the need for connection, these elements often clash rather than complement each other.
IF is a film that dares to dream big, with a heartwarming premise and stunning visual appeal. The strong lead performances, particularly by Cailey Fleming and Ryan Reynolds, bring moments of genuine magic and emotion to the screen. However, the film’s narrative struggles and underdeveloped world-building prevent it from fully engaging and inspiring its audience. While it offers glimpses of the enchanting story it aspires to be, IF ultimately falls short of its potential, resulting in a visually stunning but narratively inconsistent film.