If you haven’t yet seen The Mitchells vs. the Machines, you need to check it out on Netflix. In the past, I have always been critical of Netflix originals because they tend to be reskinning’s of other popular movies. NextGen, for example, is a beat-for-beat worse copy of Big Hero 6. I Was pleasantly surprised that this movie has a cute and unique story fit for the whole family. The Mitchells vs. the Machines is creative and quirky with a fun narrative.

The movie is about a Katie who feels like an outsider. She doesn’t fit in at school or with her family. Katie is an odd artsy girl and her dad doesn’t understand her process. As a result, they are often at odds. Katie gets accepted to an art school in California. She finally feels like she has found a place where she belongs, but drama with her family has made for an awkward goodbye. In the hopes of mending their relationship, her dad decides to take a road trip to California with the whole family. On their way to California, robots have begun to take over the world. Now it is up to the Mitchells to work together as a family and save the world. 

This story is cute. There are some preachy talking points about big tech, data privacy, and our dependence on wifi, but they aren’t overbearing. The main focus of this movie is the self-exploration that Katie and her family go through. Katie learns to appreciate where she comes from, and her bond with her family is strengthened. It is a great adventure full of laughter and excitement that is worth your time if you can spare two hours.

The best part of this movie is the animation. I love the different art styles and how they come together into one quirky narrative. Even if this is a story you might have seen elsewhere, it is unique enough to carry its own charm and claim a special place in your heart. 

If you need something fun to watch, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is your safest bet. Go watch it on Netflix today!