Duck Duck Goose 2018
Directed by
Christopher Jenkins
Made by
Open Road Films (II)
Plot Summary
As a free-spirited goose named Peng soars through the expansive skies of China, his carefree attitude comes into conflict with the strict leadership of Bing, leading him to inadvertently abandon his flock during a moment of rest. At the same time, two courageous ducklings, Chi and Chao, set off on a daring quest to the enchanting world of Pleasant Valley. However, their adventure quickly takes a wrong turn when a reckless move by Peng results in them becoming separated from their group.
In their race to evade the malicious cat Banzou, the ducklings encounter Peng, who remains blissfully unaware as he bravely faces off against their fearsome pursuer. This chance meeting forges an unexpected alliance as Peng’s wild antics lead to an unfortunate injury—a broken wing after a mishap with a gong. Stranded, he now relies on Chi and Chao as makeshift protectors, solemnly vowing to reunite with his original flock.
Navigating through a myriad of misadventures, Peng manages to win the affection of the ducklings, who slowly begin to look past their initial fears. Yet, before he can lead them back home, Peng reunites with his own kind, forcing Chi and Chao to confront his true intentions. Each group now sets their sights firmly on their individual journeys. Despite feeling defeated, Peng makes one last attempt at flying, only to be grounded by Carl, a wise hermit squirrel, who sympathetically crafts a rudimentary wing to help him.
Motivated by this generosity, Peng strives to find Chi and Chao again, yet their fate appears grim as Banzou re-emerges, capturing the ducklings. Showing remarkable courage, Peng confronts the sinister cat, but not without sustaining severe injuries during this fierce encounter. In a daring escape attempt, the ducklings ignite a rocket, propelling Peng into chaos.
Battered and exhausted, Peng remains committed to returning Chi and Chao to safety, but a sudden snowstorm exacerbates his already dire situation. However, the ingenious ducklings recall the honking technique Peng taught them, and they call for Jingjing, Peng’s girlfriend, who ultimately comes to their rescue from the biting cold. Bing, finally seeing the light, allows Chi and Chao to join the goose flock and welcomes Peng back with an embracing warmth.
In a touching moment, Peng shares his aspirations of starting a family with Jingjing, hinting at the possibility of future joys to come. Just as the credits begin to roll, an unsettling atmosphere looms. We catch a glimpse of Larry, the determined turtle who had tried desperately to warn Peng of impending doom. As Larry ventures towards the valley, he encounters a troubling silence. The once-vibrant landscape lies vacant and desolate, as if life itself has been extinguished, leaving behind an eerie stillness that raises more questions than answers.
Timeline
Peng abandons his flock
While gliding through the skies of China, Peng, a free-spirited goose, inadvertently separates from his flock during a rest period. His carefree attitude clashes with the strict leadership of Bing, leading to this moment of abandonment.
Chi and Chao's adventurous quest
Two courageous ducklings, Chi and Chao, set off on an exciting quest to find the enchanting Pleasant Valley. However, their adventure quickly takes a wrong turn due to Peng's recklessness, causing them to become separated from their group.
Encounter with Banzou
As they try to escape the menacing cat Banzou, Chi and Chao fortuitously encounter Peng. Unbeknownst to Peng, his bravado attracts the dangerous feline, leading to an unexpected alliance.
Peng injures his wing
In the midst of a confrontation with Banzou, Peng's wild antics culminate in an unfortunate accident, resulting in a broken wing from a mishap with a gong. Stranded and unable to fly, he now must rely on Chi and Chao for protection.
Forging bonds
Despite their initial fears of the wild goose, Chi and Chao begin to warm up to Peng as they navigate through several misadventures. Their bond grows stronger as they rely on one another for safety and support.
Reunion with the flock
Peng unexpectedly reunites with his flock, leading Chi and Chao to confront his true intentions. This moment creates tension as each group prepares to continue on their individual journeys, complicating their newfound friendship.
Peng's flight attempt
Feeling defeated yet determined, Peng makes a bold attempt to fly again. However, he is grounded by Carl, a wise hermit squirrel, who crafts a makeshift wing to aid him in his journey, fostering hope for Peng’s dreams.
Banzou captures the ducklings
Just as things seem to be looking up, Banzou re-emerges and captures Chi and Chao, putting them in grave danger. Peng, showing remarkable courage, confronts the sinister cat, but sustains serious injuries during the brutal encounter.
Rocket escape attempt
In a desperate bid for freedom, Chi and Chao ignite a rocket in a chaotic escape attempt to shake off Banzou. The exhilarating series of events adds to the peril Peng faces in his commitment to protect the ducklings.
Snowstorm struggles
Battered and exhausted, Peng faces even greater challenges as a sudden snowstorm strikes. This adverse weather complicates his efforts to rescue Chi and Chao, as he finds himself isolated and vulnerable in the freezing conditions.
The honking technique
In a moment of ingenuity, Chi and Chao remember the honking technique that Peng had previously taught them. They use this technique to call for help, leading to a vital rescue from Jingjing, Peng’s girlfriend.
A warm reunion
After the trials and tribulations, Bing finally recognizes the bond between Chi, Chao, and Peng. He graciously allows the ducklings to join the goose flock, fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
Plans for the future
In a touching moment post-reunion, Peng expresses his desire to start a family with Jingjing. This hopeful aspiration hints at the joys and adventures that lie ahead for the close-knit group, reinforcing the theme of family.
Larry's warning
As the credits begin to roll, an unsettling feeling emerges when Larry, the determined turtle, is seen traversing towards the valley. His sense of urgency highlights a worrying silence in the area, suggesting that trouble may still linger.
Desolation revealed
Upon reaching the valley, Larry encounters an eerie stillness that signifies a drastic change in the environment. The once vibrant landscape now lies vacant and empty, leaving behind an unsettling atmosphere and raising questions about the future.
Characters
Peng (Jim Gaffigan)
Peng is a free-spirited goose whose carefree attitude often leads to conflict with the structured environment established by his flock. His humorous and adventurous nature endears him to the ducklings despite their initial reservations. Throughout the journey, Peng displays remarkable growth, learning the value of responsibility and friendship.
Chi (Zendaya)
Chi is one of the courageous ducklings who embarks on an adventurous quest, showcasing bravery beyond her years. She quickly adapts to challenges and emerges as a protector for Peng after their fortuitous meeting. Chi's strong spirit and determination to reunite with her companions illustrate her resilience.
Chao (Lance Lim)
Chao is Chi's sibling, embodying a sense of loyalty and courage throughout their adventure. He often looks to Chi for guidance but is also willing to step up in times of need. Chao's character highlights themes of familial bonds and unity, contributing to their shared experiences and growth.
Bing (Diedrich Bader)
Bing is the strict leader of Peng's flock, whose initial rigidity contrasts sharply with Peng's playful nature. He represents the traditional values of leadership and responsibility, often leading to conflict with the rebellious Peng. As the story unfolds, Bing's character reveals layers of understanding and acceptance.
Setting
Time period
The film does not specify a particular historical time period, focusing instead on a timeless narrative of adventure and personal growth. The themes explored are universal, transcending specific eras and appealing to audiences of all ages.
Location
China, Pleasant Valley
The movie primarily takes place in the vast, picturesque landscapes of China, showcasing its expansive skies and natural beauty. Pleasant Valley is portrayed as a charming yet perilous destination, offering enchanting sights but also hiding dangers, such as the malicious cat Banzou. The contrasting settings highlight the journey of the characters as they navigate through adventure and treachery.
Themes
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Friendship
Friendship is a central theme in the movie, as the unexpected alliance between Peng and the ducklings showcases the importance of support and companionship. Through challenges and misadventures, they learn to trust and rely on each other, highlighting how friendships can develop in the most unlikely circumstances. The bond formed becomes crucial to their survival and growth.
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Courage
Courage is emphasized as the characters face various challenges, from evading the fierce cat Banzou to overcoming personal fears. Peng’s bravery in protecting Chi and Chao despite his injuries reflects the theme of valor in the face of adversity. The characters' actions inspire each other to confront dangers together and act selflessly for their friends.
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Perseverance
Perseverance is portrayed through Peng’s determination to reunite with his flock and protect Chi and Chao, even when the odds are against him. Despite sustaining injuries and facing harsh weather conditions, his tenacity drives him to find a way to succeed. The theme resonates with audiences as it emphasizes the importance of never giving up, even in dire situations.
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