Directed by Ant Timpson comes a tale in which a father and daughter find common ground in a majestic narrative. Elijah Wood returns to the territory where he played Frodo Baggins because Bookworm takes place in New Zealand. While the movie is not related to the Lord of the Rings franchise, it brings Wood back into inspirational and magical elements in Bookworm. The journey takes place in chapters and the many steps of Bookworm reveal a grandeur of astonishment.

The film focuses on Mildred (played by Nell Fisher). She is an eleven-year-old with a fascination for nature, animals, and nerdyfacts. Her mother has fallen ill and is unable to take her on a camping trip. Her estranged father, Strawn Wise (played byWood) volunteers to fill in and spend time with his long-lost daughter. Strawn is an illusionist who has had many rough days. However, his witty and joyful attitude gives Mildred hope that her faith will be restored in their camping trip around the mountains of New Zealand. She is on a mission to find the canterbury panther, a jungle animal that she is truly sold on. 

The canterbury panther is the symbol of the film’s fantasy. It is also the center of the ice breaking experience between Strawn and Mildred. Wood demonstrates a pure sense of comical and eccentric excellence. Fisher’s character has doubts but keeps her adventurous mission in her tactful eye. This film highlights the mixed personalities and finds interesting correlations amongst its moving parts. The fantasy and adventure are absolutely wonderful in this movie and hold the keys to the wonders throughout Bookworm.

The story is also particularly joyful due to its mindful surprises. They are what make Bookworm one of the best titles in Fantastic Fest since they are really “FANTASTIC!” Mildred is an expert on wildlife, animals, and sciences, while Strawn has amind for illusions and magic tricks.  Together, they bring the best of both worlds to the mountains of New Zealand. Bookworm offers a heartfelt motive—to find the love of connection through a fanciful endeavor. It is about life and acceptance while searching that creates an unforgettable dynamic. See Wood as a magical dad in the mountains of New Zealand and join the fun of the father and daughter extravaganza in Bookworm. Three-and-a-half out of four stars.