It’s been a pretty strong fall for animated films aimed at the entire family.

The “Transformers” reboot that served as an origin story was quite impressive, following the next week by the release of the latest from Dreamworks, “The Wild Robot.” This is an imaginative treat – a film full of visual wonders that has plenty of heart as well. It’s a wonderful ride that will pull the heartstrings of every family member.

Based on a book series by Peter Brown, “Wild Robot” tells the story of Roz (Lupita Nyong’o), a do-it-all robot that gets shipwrecked on a deserted island. Roz is oblivious to the surroundings, still trying to unsuccessfully provide services for the animals on the island.

Roz accidentally crushes a goose nest, leaving a single egg that hatches to reveal an undersized goose (Kit Conner). Roz decides her purpose on the island is to raise the orphaned goose and get him ready for the winter migration that will come later in the year. With the help of a conniving fox named Fink (Pedro Pascal), Roz tries to complete this mission before finding her way back home.

At first, “Wild Robot” feels a lot like the Disney film “Wall-E,” with a robot learning the ways of the wild, but director Chris Sanders, who adapted Brown’s books, quickly branches this story into its own original direction. This is deeply emotional film with the bond between Roz and the goose (named Brightbill) slowly evolving. There is so much depth to the characters that the film becomes as Brightbill’s story as much as it Roz – with his journey just as interesting and entertaining as the robot.

Pascal is just one of many voice talents that provide some quality supporting work – joining a cast that includes Catherine O’Hara, Mark Hamill, Ving Rhames and Bill Nighy.

The characters are all part of a beautiful immersive world expertly crafted by Johnson and his animation team. Johnson really brings this world to life with some breathtaking visuals that only enhance the overall experience.

“Wild Robot” does drag ever so slightly in a final act that feels like it has more than one ending, but for the most part, this is wonderful film – one that really soars with imagination while telling a simple but effective story that is sure to illicit an emotional response.

If You Go
“The Wild Robot”
Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal (voices)
Directed by: Chris Sanders
Rating: PG for action/peril and thematic elements
Playing at: Regal Bowling Green Stadium 12, Regal Greenwood Mall Stadium 10, Highland Cinemas (Glasgow)
Grade: B