One of the things I enjoy about “safer at home” orders is that movies are released straight to streaming. Saturday night we watched The One and Only Ivan. It was my choice. I’d read and loved the children’s book a while back and was looking forward to the movie recently released.

I was glad I’d forgotten much of the story details so that I was truly free to enjoy the movie without comparing it too closely. For me, the book usually wins as better than the movie.

I found the movie sweet and enjoyable. I laughed, teared up, smiled, cheered, and went along for the ride. I loved the characters – all of them. Human and animal. I thought the visual effects were engaging and helped me suspend belief when the animals spoke. Thankfully, they all followed the rule of speaking only to other animals and not to humans. I liked the storyline and the different twists. Though a straight forward plot and familiar dilemma, it was a perfect movie for a relaxing break from reality.

My husband watched it with me. Although not his first choice for a movie genre, he felt it was pleasant enough. This is a good family movie. Remember, I am not a movie critic. I simply know what I like, and that is usually good enough.

Going to movies was a big deal and a rare event when I was a child. Now our TV monitor is large, has clarity and good color, along with the excellent sound. I still enjoy going to the movies, but staying home to stream them is more convenient, cheaper, and just as enjoyable. The popcorn was homemade and deliciously fresh. The bathroom is convenient and clean. No one in the room talked, used their phones, or sat too close to me (hello, introverts!). Well, my husband sat close, but that’s different. The movie experience was without disruption, a win for home viewing.

The One and Only Ivan, based on a true story, was worth watching. Please watch it to the very end. There is some information on the true Ivan, as well as a little surprise. The monkey from Pirates of the Caribbean screams onto the screen. You know that is not true, but don’t stop before the credits.

Stay artistic, my friends!