Arlo the Alligator Boy 2021
Directed by
Ryan Crego
Made by
Netflix
Plot Summary
Arlo Beauregard, a unique boy born of both human and alligator lineage, embarks on an extraordinary journey that begins when he is abandoned shortly after birth and swept away through a sewage drain into the ocean. He finds refuge in a swamp, where he is lovingly adopted and raised by Edmée. As Arlo reaches his teenage years, a longing to connect with the world beyond his swamp home grows, yet he grapples with the fear that his alligator appearance will lead to rejection from society.
On his fifteenth birthday, Edmée presents Arlo with his birth wristband, sharing the revelation of his origin from New York City. Unknown to him, he had been abandoned, prompting Arlo to embark on a quest to find his biological father, Ansel Beauregard.
During his travels, Arlo is spotted by a passerby who alerts two alligator hunters, Ruff and Stucky, to capture him using a fearsome creature known as “the Beast.” Just as the hunters close in, Arlo is rescued by a fellow teenager named Bertie. Together, they venture into a wrestling club where they encounter Furlecia, Teeny Tiny Tony, and Alia, who pledge their support to help Arlo and Bertie reach New York City, provided they assist in rescuing their friend Marcellus from an aquarium.
Upon their arrival in the bustling metropolis, they soon spot Ansel Beauregard, an entrepreneur with ambitious plans to reconstruct parts of the coastal city. In an effort to communicate with him, Arlo separates from his companions but is crushed when Ansel informs him he is not his son. Stubbornly, Arlo disputes this claim, only for Ansel to suggest changes to Arlo’s appearance in a bid to fit in, leaving Arlo shocked and disheartened. Seeking solace, Arlo retreats into a sewage drain, where his loyal friends eventually find him at the development site of Ansel’s project. They impart the valuable lesson that it is alright to be different and that one’s imperfections are what truly define them.
Later that evening, in a daring escapade at the Met Gala, Arlo and his friends infiltrate the event but are pursued by Ruff, Stucky, and the Beast. As Arlo disrupts the gala, Ansel attempts to communicate his truths. However, the tension escalates as Arlo falls into the grasps of Ruff and Stucky. With a daring rescue, Ansel reveals that he is indeed Arlo’s father and, like Arlo, carries the unique identity of being half-bird. Ansel confesses he gave Arlo up to protect him from the challenges of being different and begs for forgiveness to rebuild their father-son bond. Overjoyed, Arlo embraces Ansel and forgives him while choosing to remain with his friends, officially bringing Bertie into their circle.
In a heartwarming conclusion, Ansel decides to let the group revitalize the seashore area of the city in its original splendor, affirming Arlo’s newfound sense of belonging.
In a poignant mid-credits scene, Edmée receives a postcard that shares the news of Arlo’s fulfilling life, a testament to the love and connection that transcends distance.
Timeline
Abandonment
Arlo Beauregard is abandoned shortly after birth due to his unique lineage of both human and alligator. He is swept away through a sewage drain, signifying the beginning of his extraordinary journey.
Adopted by Edmée
After being swept into the ocean, Arlo finds refuge in a swamp. There, he is lovingly adopted and raised by Edmée, who provides him with a nurturing home.
Discovery of Origin
On his fifteenth birthday, Edmée presents Arlo with a wristband that reveals details about his origin in New York City. This revelation leaves Arlo with a strong desire to discover his biological father.
Quest for Ansel
Motivated by his longing for connection, Arlo embarks on a quest to find his biological father, Ansel Beauregard. This journey marks a pivotal turning point in his life as he seeks answers about his origins.
Encounter with Hunters
While traveling, Arlo is spotted by a passerby who alerts alligator hunters, Ruff and Stucky. They attempt to capture him using a fierce creature known as 'the Beast', showcasing the dangers he faces.
Rescue by Bertie
In a moment of peril, Arlo is rescued by a fellow teenager named Bertie. This marks the beginning of their friendship as they decide to work together against adversity.
Allies in the Wrestling Club
Arlo and Bertie venture into a wrestling club where they meet Furlecia, Teeny Tiny Tony, and Alia. They pledge their support to help Arlo and Bertie reach New York City, further solidifying their alliance.
Arrival in New York City
Upon arriving in New York City, Arlo and his friends catch sight of Ansel Beauregard, now an entrepreneur with grand plans for the city. This marks a moment of hope for Arlo as he hopes to connect with his father.
Discovery of Truth
Arlo bravely approaches Ansel to communicate, only to be struck down when Ansel claims he is not his son. This revelation shatters Arlo's hopes, leading him to dispute Ansel's assertion.
Retreat into Solitude
Devastated by the confrontation, Arlo seeks solace in a sewage drain. His friends locate him, reminding him that it's okay to be different and that one's worth is not defined by outward appearances.
Met Gala Infiltration
In a daring escapade, Arlo and his friends infiltrate the Met Gala. This high-stakes event quickly turns chaotic as they are pursued by Ruff, Stucky, and the Beast, intensifying the conflict.
Revelation of Fatherhood
During the chaos of the gala, Ansel reveals that he is, in fact, Arlo’s father. He confesses that he gave Arlo up to protect him from the difficulties associated with their unique identities.
Forgiveness and Acceptance
Overjoyed by the revelation, Arlo forgives Ansel, embracing the complexities of their relationship. Arlo chooses to stay with his friends, marking a significant moment of acceptance and belonging.
Revitalization Project
Ansel decides to let Arlo and his friends revitalize the seashore area of the city, aligning their visions. This decision represents a new beginning for Arlo, who finally feels a sense of belonging.
Postcard from Edmée
In a touching mid-credits scene, Edmée receives a postcard detailing Arlo's fulfilling life. It symbolizes the unbreakable bond of love and connection that transcends physical distance.
Characters
Arlo the Alligator Boy
Arlo is a unique character, being half human and half alligator. He embodies the struggle of wanting to belong while dealing with his insecurities about his appearance. Arlo's determination to find his biological father drives much of the plot, showcasing his bravery and emotional depth.
Edmée
Edmée is a caring figure who raises Arlo in the swamp. She provides him with love and support, fostering his sense of self-worth. Her nurturing nature contrasts with the harsh realities of the outside world, making her a pivotal character in Arlo's journey.
Ansel Beauregard
Ansel is revealed to be Arlo's biological father, an ambitious entrepreneur grappling with the decisions he made regarding Arlo's upbringing. His character arc evolves from a figure of rejection to one seeking forgiveness and reconnection.
Ruff
Ruff serves as an antagonist, representing the challenges and fears Arlo faces due to his uniqueness. His pursuit of Arlo highlights the theme of societal rejection, making him a significant figure in the narrative.
Bertie
Bertie is a supportive friend who accompanies Arlo on his quest. Her loyalty and bravery contribute significantly to the group's dynamic. She represents the significance of friendship in overcoming challenges.
Setting
Time period
The movie doesn't specify a historical time period but captures a contemporary setting. It explores themes of belonging and identity in the context of modern society, touching on relatable issues of self-acceptance during adolescence.
Location
New York City, a swamp
The movie travels from the vibrant streets of New York City to the tranquil refuge of a lush swamp. New York City is known for its bustling atmosphere and towering skyscrapers, symbolizing ambition and dreams. The swamp offers a contrasting backdrop, representing home, nurturing, and the comfort of acceptance.
Themes
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Acceptance
Acceptance is a central theme as Arlo, despite feeling out of place due to his appearance, learns to embrace his uniqueness. The story highlights the importance of friendship and community in fostering self-love. Arlo's journey illustrates that true belonging comes from within and is shared among those who accept and love us for who we are.
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Reconciliation
The theme of reconciliation emerges as Arlo seeks to understand his connection with his father, Ansel. Their emotional reunion emphasizes forgiveness and the importance of family ties. Ultimately, it portrays the healing power of honesty and understanding in rebuilding relationships.
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