LOS ANGELES, July 30 (UPI) -- Sketch, in theaters Aug. 6, is a clever and poignant original family adventure. It delivers on magic and wonder but also imbues those elements with relevant themes.
The live-action film stars Bianca Belle as Amber, a young girl who draws pictures in a sketch book to express her emotions. When her notebook falls into a magical pond, her drawings come to life.
Amber and her brother, Jack (Kue Lawrence), live with their father, Taylor (Tony Hale). They're all grieving the death of Taylor's wife and the kids' mother, after which Amber's art turned more aggressive.
Using art to cope with emotions is a healthy practice. It is not a total cure, however, so the movie is a metaphor for that anger and sadness getting out.
Writer/director Seth Worley actually deals with children's feelings. Sketch does not pander to the characters or try to distract them like the cinematic equivalent of jangling keys.
