Pinocchio (2019)

O’Sullivan finds Garrone’s adaptation whimsical, gritty and disturbing yet delightful, despite its excessive length. She especially praises Federico Ielapi’s complicated, star-making performance as Pinocchio.

Crawford praises Garrone’s adaptation as a dreamlike, emotionally resonant retelling that outshines the competing versions. She singles out its candy-coloured world and inventive practical effects as a visual feast.

The review praises Garrone’s faithful yet distinctive retelling, grounded in a harsh world where care for one another becomes a means of survival. It especially singles out the practical effects and Roberto Benigni’s tender, emotionally resonant performance.

The review praises Garrone’s adaptation as a landmark that brings genuine emotion to Collodi’s dark story, though it finds the film a little long. It singles out the blend of realistic 19th-century Italian poverty and dreamy fantasy, along with Benigni’s emotionally deep performance as Geppetto.

Godfrey finds the film charming and heartfelt, though its episodic structure leaves it lacking dramatic weight. He especially praises the convincing wooden-Pinocchio prosthetics and the film’s vivid creature designs.

Kohn finds Garrone’s adaptation delightful and strange, though its uneven opening and rough transitions keep it from digging deeply into the material. He praises its imaginative practical effects and surreal, gothic visuals.

Rubins finds Garrone’s adaptation quirky and warmly affecting, while noting that its moral lessons can feel overly harsh. He praises the tender friendship between Pinocchio and the Fairy, alongside the warmth of the father-son reunion.

Hans finds the retelling mesmerisingly creepy and suggests its harsh world makes becoming human seem nearly impossible. She praises Pinocchio’s uncanny appearance and the humanity he radiates.

Hasted finds the film an engrossing, lovingly crafted spectacle. He especially praises Garrone’s eye for bizarre and ironic details that spark children’s imaginations.

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The critic finds the adaptation flawed but engaging, and questions the need for another version of the story. The grotesque prosthetic creature designs stand out, though many characters feel more off-putting than captivating.

Weissberg finds the film enchanting but subdued, with a fragmented story that weakens its emotional core. He praises the imaginative makeup and prosthetics, especially the Snail, Judge, and Tuna.

Wilkinson finds the adaptation inventive, appealing, and well suited to children. She praises its off-kilter world and balances its occasional scares against a reassuring sense that Pinocchio is protected.