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The Willoughbys

The Willoughbys is a 2020 animated dark comedy film directed by Kris Pearn and co-directed by Rob Lodermeier, based on Lois Lowry’s novel of the same name.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Willoughbys is a 2020 animated dark comedy film directed by Kris Pearn and co-directed by Rob Lodermeier, based on Lois Lowry's novel of the same name. The film follows four neglected siblings who try to become orphans so they can find a better family situation. It premiered on Netflix in April 2020 and features a voice cast that includes Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Seán Cullen, and Ricky Gervais.

Plot

The story follows four Willoughby children who feel neglected by their self-centred parents and come to believe they would be better off on their own. Their plan to reshape their family life leads them into an adventure about trust, care, and belonging.

Production

The film is based on Lois Lowry's novel and was adapted for the screen by Kris Pearn and Mark Stanleigh. Pearn also directed the film, with Rob Lodermeier serving as co-director in his feature directorial debut.

Release and reception

The Willoughbys was released by Netflix on April 22, 2020. Reviews were generally favourable, with particular praise for the animation, voice acting, and the song "I Choose" performed by Alessia Cara.

Cast

The film features voice performances by Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Seán Cullen, and Ricky Gervais, who also narrates the film.

Key facts

  • The film is an animated adaptation of Lois Lowry's children's novel The Willoughbys.
  • It was directed by Kris Pearn and co-directed by Rob Lodermeier.
  • The voice cast includes Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Seán Cullen, and Ricky Gervais.
  • The story centres on four siblings who try to rid themselves of their selfish parents and create a new family.
  • The film was released on Netflix on April 22, 2020, and received generally positive reviews.
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Canadian context

The film was co-directed by Canadian animator Rob Lodermeier, whose feature directorial debut was on this project.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Willoughbys about?
It follows four neglected siblings who try to become orphans so they can escape their selfish parents and find a better home life.
Who directed The Willoughbys?
Kris Pearn directed the film, and Rob Lodermeier co-directed it.
What is The Willoughbys based on?
It is based on the children's novel The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry.
When was The Willoughbys released?
It was released on April 22, 2020, on Netflix.
Who voices the characters in The Willoughbys?
The voice cast includes Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Seán Cullen, and Ricky Gervais.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Willoughbys
    Supports: Release date, directors, cast, premise, reception, and Annie Award nominations.
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_willoughbys
    Supports: Genre, synopsis, and MPAA rating.
  3. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/80239482
    Supports: Official premise, release platform, and starring cast.
  4. RogerEbert.com — https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-willoughbys-movie-review-2020
    Supports: Plot details, voice cast, and review context.
  5. The New York Times — https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/22/movies/the-willoughbys-review.html
    Supports: Release timing, plot overview, and review context.