Cryptozoo can come off a bit strange and bizarre but the story itself teaches lessons of acceptance and helping others.
I want to start this off by saying that this movie is not for everyone. It is an adult animated film that reminded me of some adult swim cartoons. The story overall feels about accepting others, even if they are different than you, as well as helping them when they are in need.
Crypotzoo starts right off with sex, as indicated by the synopsis, but I suppose I didn’t expect it to be as awkward as it was. The animated characters moaning and touching each other was a bit much for me and I almost had to look away. But once the first few minutes are over, and the couple discovers a unicorn and the world of Cryptids opens up.
Cryptids are creatures like unicorns and centaurs. Those who are suspected to be real by some, but that are suspected to be myths. They are in danger from humans as they are being hunted. A woman teams up with a few others to make sure that these creatures are collected and brought to the Cryptozoo, which is more of a sanctuary.
What Works With Cryptozoo
I love the message of accepting others even though they are different that you. One of the main characters is a Gorgon who can turn people to stone with one look, but of course she rarely uses her power. Cryptozoo teaches that just because you have an assumption about someone, doesn’t mean you are right — never judge a book by its cover.
The 2D animation is beautiful and I was memorized by it almost the whole time. Some parts of the story were strange or a bit off, but I still enjoyed the watch overall. The movie flew by for me and didn’t drag at all. I was genuinely interested in the story line for the most part, and found myself waiting for what was going to happen next.
The final act is non-stop action that had me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed it and feel that it wrapped up the story well. This entire film is a bold move, but it really, really works.
What Doesn’t Work With Cryptozoo
Something that is probably going to put the most people off to this movie is the sexual stuff. It is a bit odd at times and even made me look away once or twice. The story itself is complicated and confusing at times, but I think the message comes through strong enough overall. Some people might not be a fan of the violence in this film and while I think it is a bit too much, I wasn’t totally upset by it all.
Overall Thoughts
Cryptozoo is quite bizarre — but not it a totally bad way. I love the animation style and the story is actually quite compelling. Some of it can be a bit much at times, however this one is an interesting watch. I think this will be hit or miss with people. For me? It’s a hit.
About Cryptozoo
Cryptids are creatures whose existence is disputed or unsubstantiated. When Amber and Matt get lost in the woods during a sex date, they stumble upon a high-security fence. On the other side, they find a cryptid – a unicorn – that would change their lives.
Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. On Camera personality and TV / Film Critic with 10+ years of experience in video editing, writing, editing, moderating, and hosting.