Some films bank on personal experiences or memories to connect to viewers.  I think IF attempts to remind viewers of childhood experiences to connect to its fantastical story, and I wouldn’t be surprised to learn that this approach works for some.  It did not for me; I don’t recall ever having an Imaginary Friend and I am certain that I would remember if I did, and would be astounded if anyone who had such a friend did not recall him, her or it from time to time as an adult.  But that’s what the movie’s premise depends on, which means to me that it is nonsensical from the start.

John Krasinski’s film posits that a lonely 10-year-old girl, Bea (Cailey Fleming), stunned by her mother’s death and her father’s serious illness, chances upon some fantastical creatures in the city at night.  They lead her to believe that children have forgotten who their IFs were and need to be reminded, and reunited, and she sets out to fix the situation, leading to her own reconciliation at the end.

Kids might find this charming or alarming; I can see it going either way.  Adults who once had Imaginary Friends might actually get some value from this, especially if the film reminds them of the good times of their kidhood.  I find the whole situation very cloying and kind of creepy.  Remember, I do not have a good relationship with fantasy, and this movie is full of whimsy and ridiculousness.  It’s not my thing, and I certainly recognize that.  It’s somewhat artfully produced but I simply could not connect to it, nor appreciate the celebrity voices, creature designs, lewd humor or, for that matter, Ryan Reynolds.  It’s not my thing.  ☆ ☆.  20 July 2024.