When the Primm family moves into a house on East 88th Street in New York City that was once owned by Hector Valenti, their young son, Josh, struggles to adapt to his new school and friends. All of that changes when Josh discovers Lyle in his attic.
Lyle is a singing and dancing crocodile that loves baths, caviar and great music. The two become fast friends, but when Mr. Grumps, an evil neighbor, has Lyle thrown into the zoo, the Primms band together to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places.
Academy Award winner Javier Bardem is Hector Valenti who loses the house on a bet about Lyle’s ability to perform. I was shocked that Bardem is charming as the song and dance man Valenti; I am so used to seeing him in heavy dramatic roles.
Constance Wu of “Crazy Rich Asian” fame is Mrs. Primm. I love her; she is great in this film.
Scoot McNairy plays her husband Mr. Primm. Thirteen-year-old Winslow Fegley steals the show as the Primm’s son Josh as he and Lyle travel the streets of New York at night.
The screenplay “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile” by William Davies is an adaptation of the “The House on East 88th Street” by Bernard Waber. It is is a wonderful adaptation and the story moves along with never a dull moment.
“Lyle, Lyle Crocodile” was directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck. The original songs for the film were written by executive producers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul along with Ari Afsar, Emily Gardner Xu Hall, Mark Sonnenblick, and Joriah Kwamé. Matthew Margeson composed the musical score. Visual effects were by Framestore, Method, OPSIS and Day for Nite.
This is a must see for the entire family. Even little ones will fall in love with Lyle. He is never a threat. You will love him at first sight when Valenti buys him at the pet store.
There is no sex or foul language to worry about. It is a delightful way to spend a couple of hours.
“Lyle, Lyle Crocodile” is currently showing at both Alton and Edwardsville. I give it 5 stars.