Review: ‘Animal Farm’ is an animated satirical allegory film by Andy Serkis

Still from ‘Animal Farm.’ Photo Courtesy of Angel Studios.

“Animal Farm” is a new animated satirical allegory film directed by Emmy winner Andy Serkis (“The Lord of the Rings” trilogy), which was released on May 1st via Angel Studios.

The synopsis is: “Animal Farm” traces how a movement for equality is systematically corrupted. As the pigs consolidate control, truth is erased, dissent is crushed, and the farm descends into a ruthless dictatorship—fulfilling Orwell’s warning about the dangers of communism.

Aside from Andy Serkis, the voice cast of actors stars Seth Rogen, Gaten Matarazzo, Steve Buscemi, Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin, Woody Harrelson, Jim Parsons, Kathleen Turner, Laverne Cox and Iman Vellani.

Andy Serkis’ new “cautionary tale” is an ambitious and witty adaptation that mostly succeeds in bringing George Orwell’s classic allegory to life for a younger audience.

Serkis leans into his strengths with motion-capture technology, so the diverse animals feel expressive and emotionally grounded in a way that adds depth to the original George Orwell story.

Glenn Close playing the role of the Freida Pilkington, the wealthy villainess who wants to take over the farm, is a neat twist (especially since her name is a combination of Mr. Frederick and Mr. Pilkington from the book).

This animation is polished, and certain scenes—especially those depicting the gradual shift in power—are genuinely unflinching and unsettling.

Where the film shines most is in its tone. It doesn’t shy away from the darker themes of manipulation, corruption, and inequality, and it trusts the audience (especially children) to engage with those ideas rather than watering them down.

The performances from the voice cast all around are strong across the board, with Serkis himself delivering particularly memorable turns that adds nuances in the three characters that he takes on: Farmer Jones, Old Major, and Randolph.

The only downside is that its pacing can feel uneven at times. Some of the animals’ arcs are rushed, and a few moments that should land with emotional weight don’t quite have the buildup that they need.

Additionally, while the film is visually striking, it occasionally prioritizes spectacle over subtlety, which slightly undercuts the story’s more nuanced political commentary.

The Verdict

Overall, “Animal Farm” by Andy Serkis is a compelling and worthwhile adaptation that doesn’t get too preachy. This allegory is timely and relevant as it touches on such sophisticated subjects as revolution, the abuse of power, totalitarianism, and the need for change.

While the movie does not reach masterpiece status, it still offers a thought-provoking and visually engaging cinematic experience.

It underscores the message that we are equal and that we thrive only when we help each other.

Andy Serkis’ “Animal Farm” will certainly spark conversations among viewers, especially the youth, as it updates the story to keep up with the times.

Fans of George Orwell’s original book “Animal Farm” and Andy Serkis’ previous acting projects are likely to appreciate it. This new adaptation of “Animal Farm” garners four out of five stars. Well done.