Cryptozoo

Cryptozoo

Year: 2021

Runtime: 95 min

Language: English

Director: Dash Shaw

Animation

In this whimsical animated tale, cryptids - elusive beings shrouded in mystery - capture the hearts of two lost souls, Amber and Matt. As their lives intertwine with that of cryptozookeeper Lauren, a complex exploration of wonder, exploitation, and freedom unfolds, raising questions about the value of secrecy versus display.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Cryptozoo yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Cryptozoo (2021)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Cryptozoo (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1960s

The story takes place during the 1960s, a decade marked by significant social upheaval, the Vietnam War, and a surge in counterculture movements. It was a time when traditional values were questioned, and the search for freedom and personal identity became paramount. This era's chaotic yet transformative spirit deeply influences the characters' journeys as they navigate the lines between reality and the fantastical.

Location

San Francisco, Orlando, Maysville, Kentucky, Black Kitty Cat, mystical tarot shop

The movie unfolds primarily in the vibrant and tumultuous backdrop of 1960s San Francisco, known for its counterculture movements and eclectic vibe. Orlando serves as a significant location for rescue missions involving cryptid creatures, showcasing a blend of fantasy and urban landscapes. Maysville, Kentucky adds a touch of Americana, amplifying the film's exploration of the struggle between humanity and the magical.

🏙️ City 🌄 Nature 🏪 Store 🎭 Entertainment

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:03

Main Characters – Cryptozoo (2021)
Meet the key characters of Cryptozoo (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lauren Gray (Lake Bell)

Lauren is a dedicated cryptozoologist driven by a personal mission to rescue elusive creatures from the illegal trade. Her character embodies resilience as she confronts her past traumas and navigates the moral complexities of her work. Ultimately, Lauren's journey leads her to a path of healing and self-discovery, revealing her true need for connection and purpose beyond the cryptozoological realm.

🧑‍🔬 Cryptozoology 🛡️ Protector ❤️ Resilience

Matthew (Michael Cera)

Matthew represents curiosity and innocence, whose desire for exploration unleashes a series of tragic events. His character acts as a catalyst for the film’s conflicts, driving Amber to drastic decisions in the face of danger. His fate profoundly impacts the narrative, serving as a poignant reminder of the consequences of their actions.

💘 Love 🦸‍♂️ Adventure ⚰️ Tragedy

Amber (Louisa Krause)

Amber is a youthful spirit entwined in a chaotic romance, struggling with the weight of loss and guilt after Matthew's fate. Her character arcs from innocent curiosity to a brutal realization of the world's harsh realities, ultimately leading her to seek solace in nurturing creatures. Amber's journey reflects the search for healing and redemption amidst turmoil.

❤️ Love 😢 Grief 🦸‍♀️ Protector

Gustav (Peter Stormare)

Gustav is a morally ambiguous faun who embodies charm and cunning, providing a complex layer to the story. His motivations often blur the lines between right and wrong, as he seeks personal gain while helping Lauren in her missions. Ultimately, his sacrifice underscores the essence of loyalty and the depths of redemption.

🧙‍♂️ Faun 🚨 Morality 💔 Sacrifice

Joan (Grace Zabriskie)

Joan is the enigmatic owner of Cryptozoo, revered for her protective nature towards the creatures. She acts as a guiding force for Lauren, emphasizing the need for unity in the fight against exploitation. Joan's ultimate sacrifice encapsulates the harsh realities faced by those who dedicate themselves to safeguarding the voiceless.

🦸‍♀️ Protector 🦄 Guardian ⚖️ Justice

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:03

Major Themes – Cryptozoo (2021)
Explore the central themes of Cryptozoo (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🦄 Fantasy vs Reality

The film explores the delicate balance between fantasy and reality, illustrated through the characters' interactions with mythical creatures, such as unicorns and gorgons. These cryptids symbolize the longing for freedom and the fight against oppression, reflecting the characters' human struggles amidst a world rich with magic. Ultimately, the theme reveals a profound commentary on society’s perceptions of the 'other' and the quest for understanding.

💔 Loss and Sacrifice

Loss plays a pivotal role in the narrative, profoundly affecting Lauren and Amber as they navigate their grief and the consequences of their actions. The sacrifices made by characters like Gustav highlight the film's exploration of what it means to protect one's loved ones and the complexities of moral choices. This theme resonates throughout the journey, emphasizing the emotional toll taken by the pursuit of freedom amidst adversity.

🌍 Connection to Nature

The bond between humans and cryptids serves as a central theme, symbolizing a larger connection to nature and the importance of stewardship. Lauren's journey from a cryptozoologist to a veterinarian underscores this theme, as she learns to nurture rather than control. This transformation reflects the film's overarching message about the coexistence of humanity and magical creatures in a shared environment.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:03

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