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Idiots and Angels (2008)

Idiots and Angels (2008)

Miserable scoundrel transforms into unwilling good-doer in this strange and cynical animated comedy

7.0

Movie

United States of America
English
Animation, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
2008
BILL PLYMPTON
Arielle Doneson, Carrie Keranen, Greg Sextro
78 min

TLDR

Now, how do I give angel wings on certain individuals…

What it's about

Much to his surprise, utter misanthrope Angel is transformed to his namesake, when a pair of snow-white wings sprout from his back. The wings force him to do good deeds, and he desperately tries to get rid of them, but everyone in town now wants these wings for fame and fortune.

The take

As much as we’d like to think everyone can be redeemed, there are terrible, awful people that do exist that make it hard to believe in change. Idiots and Angels takes one such person named Angel, and forces him through a highly unusual, creepy, and cynical redemption tale that involves a body transformation that’s less heavenly and more Kafkaesque. As he pulls feathers from his body, Angel’s miserable, terrible self has no choice but to act decently for once. It’s a unique transformation, one we wish our curmudgeonly acquaintances would have, and with no words spoken, Bill Plympton’s unique cross-hatched animation takes center stage. Idiots and Angels may not be the most perfect animated film out there, but it’s certainly one of its kind, something you’ve probably never seen before.

What stands out

Mild spoilers. With a unique premise, story, and art style, Idiots and Angels might have held a stronger impression, but the side characters need a touch more tweaking, especially Blonde, Bart’s wife. The film’s treatment makes their endings feel so ludicrous, even when compared to wings sprouting out of a human body.

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