The creative process behind “Spellbound” takes center stage as director Vicky Jenson shares the intriguing story behind one of the film’s standout characters, Flink. This playful animal sidekick, known for his cheeky demeanor, gets his name from the clever merger of words that Jenson fondly uses, expressing her penchant for creating unique names: “He just has to flink!”
Character art director Guillermo Ramirez infused Flink with a delightful mix of inspirations, drawing from an array of playful creatures, including hamsters, raccoons, and squirrels, as well as the fluid movement of squids and cuttlefish. “These were not that cute!” he chuckles, emphasizing Flink’s charming aesthetics. The character’s ability to stuff an assortment of items—from acorns to magical devices—into his oversized cheeks emerged from an early illustration by Ramirez that showcased Flink hilariously overwhelmed with treasures.
Jenson hopes Flink’s antics will resonate with parents, particularly with puppy owners familiar with the playful chaos of their pets’ mischief. “What do you have? What? Give it to me! Drop it!” she jokingly points out.
One of the film’s engaging plot twists arises when Flink and Minister Bolinar, voiced by John Lithgow, inadvertently swap bodies due to a whimsical mishap. This clever element was suggested midway through production by another director at Skydance, enhancing Ellian’s experience by allowing her to interact with a character instead of facing silent monsters. “How funny is it to see little Flink in Bolinar’s body?” Jenson reflects on this humorous twist.
With its vibrant characters and imaginative storytelling, “Spellbound” is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering viewers a magical experience filled with laughter and heartwarming moments.
Comment: The development of characters like Flink highlights the creativity and collaboration involved in animation, showcasing how unique ideas can stem from combining different influences and playful experimentation.
In summary, “Spellbound” delivers a blend of humor, creativity, and charming characters that appeal to audiences of all ages, making it a delightful watch on Netflix.