In a year crowded with remakes and inconsistent ideas, Sketch bursts onto the scene like a vibrant, crayon-drawn masterpiece, earning its place as the best family film of 2025. Directed by Seth Worley, this inventive junior-horror adventure from Angel Studios is a blend of heart, humor, and just the right amount of spooky. It’s a film that doesn’t just entertain but also speaks deeply to the emotional complexities of childhood, making it a must-see for families brave enough to face a few monsters—both real and imagined. With a stellar cast led by Tony Hale, D’Arcy Carden, and the remarkable young Bianca Belle, Sketch delivers a story that’s touching and action packed.
The premise of Sketch is original: 10-year-old Amber Wyatt (Bianca Belle), grappling with her mother’s death, channels her grief into drawings of monsters that unexpectedly come to life. These creatures, born from her pain, wreak havoc on her small town, forcing Amber, her father Taylor (Tony Hale), her brother Jack (Kue Lawrence), and their realtor aunt Liz (D’Arcy Carden) to confront both the monsters and their unresolved emotions. The film’s ability to weave a fantastical plot with relatable themes of loss and healing sets it apart from typical family film. It’s a bold choice to tackle such heavy topics in a kid-friendly format, and Worley executes it with finesse.
What makes Sketch truly shine is its story. Amber’s monsters aren’t just plot devices; they’re vivid manifestations of her grief, guilt, and anger. The film doesn’t shy away from showing how children process complex emotions, and Bianca Belle’s performance is nothing short of captivating. She brings a quiet intensity to Amber, with a fierce determination to confront her creations. The script, penned by Worley, cleverly parallels Amber’s journey with that of her father and brother, each dealing with loss in their own way—Taylor by suppressing it, Jack by deflecting with humor. This layered exploration of family dynamics elevates Sketch above standard kids’ films.
Visually, Sketch is a treat, with its monster designs bringing Amber’s chaotic sketches to life. The effects are just believable enough to thrill without crossing into nightmare territory, making this an ideal introduction to horror for kids. The film’s message—that emotions, even the painful ones, are valid and can be channeled constructively—is delivered with such grace that it never feels preachy. Sketch reminds us that “you can’t control your inbox, but you can control your outbox,” a line that encapsulates its empowering ethos. By showing Amber learning to sprinkle “positive stuff” into her art, the film encourages kids to find healthy outlets for their feelings, whether through creativity, teamwork, or open communication.
Unlike many family films that lean on predictable cliches, Sketch feels fresh and daring. Its horror-lite approach sets it apart from the animated sequels and live-action remakes dominating 2025’s family movie landscape. The film’s ability to blend scares with sincerity recalls classics like Jumanji or Inside Out, but it carves its own path with an original story and a focus on art as a transformative force. For parents, Sketch offers a rare opportunity to discuss big feelings with kids in a way that’s age-appropriate.
Sketch is a cinematic joy that proves family films can be bold, funny, and deeply moving all at once. It’s a film that celebrates the messiness of emotions and the strength it takes to face them, wrapped in a package that’s entertaining. Grab your popcorn, brace for a few scares, and let this gem remind you of the magic that happens when art and love collide.
SKETCH Arrives In cinemas 11 September.
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