After the horrors of A Quiet Place it looks as if John Krasinski has
decided that his next project is one that he can take his kids to. Written
and directed by him, his wife Emily Blunt voices one of the animated
characters , so it’s obviously a family affair, IF which stands for
imaginary friends is an over sentimental story that will appeal to its
target audience of young kids. However if you’re not a young kid IF really
offers, other than an outstanding performance from young Cailey Fleming,
nothing very much for an adult audience.
With her life in turmoil after the death of her mother and with her father
in hospital (John Krasinski) with a serious heart condition young Bea
(Cailey Fleming) finds that she has the power to see people’s imaginary
friends.
Helped by her neighbour Cal (Ryan Reynolds) who can also see other people’s
imaginary friends, she sets out to pair up unwanted IFs’ with new “owners.
Kransinski peppers his story with some nice touches, the visit to the home
for retired IFs being one of the films highlights.
The IFs are voiced by an array of Hollywood including the likes of Phoebe
Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr. (in his last screen performance before his
death) and Steve Carell.
With some questionable CGI and a story that at times feels confusing and
underwritten IF is going to appeal to less demanding children for everyone
else it has to go down as something of a disappointment.
