Riki Rhino Review: An Avenue To Introduce Your Kids To The Environment And Conservation

Release date: November 29, 2021
Running time: 90 minutes
Starring: Jennifer Castle ("Miss Potter") and Paul Reynolds ("Press Gang")

Riki has his horn stolen by the horrible poacher Mr Jak. To get his horn back, Riki and Beni embark on an exciting adventure through the rainforest. Along the way Riki helps other animals in trouble and every time he helps, he is rewarded with a new skill that will help him on his quest.

Riki Rhino's best asset is the environmental nature of it.  It is slightly more brutal than other kids movies I am used to, but that also opens up an avenue to talk about poaching and the environment.  The film has some important messages about hunting and conservation that I appreciated.  Seeing the effects of this on the animals, even if in a kid focused environment is a great way to raise awareness.  And it also opens up discussions about Africa and the animals that are there.  Additionally, Riki Rhino is a cute film with some very funny moments (at least that's what my kids thought).  They were very happy when certain events happened, and when Riki got his new skill. 

But Riki Rhino's biggest flaw is in the animation area.  The animation gets the point across but it is rough in many places.  It often feels like the animation you would see in a children's cartoon from many years ago, with blocky movement, obvious textures, and some low polygon situations.  It was strange to see because it really did look like it was out of a different time.  And although the story did come across, it just made me wish for something that could truly show the majesty and beauty of this environment.  And the lore of the film didn't resonate with me, with a quest that often felt convenient in what happened.  Riki's situations would often be solved by very opportune character introductions and skills, which felt like maybe the story was put together a little too quickly.  And although my kids found it very funny, I didn't laugh nearly as much.  This is a good piece of entertainment for the kids, but it is not a film that will have references that keep adults entertained.  

Riki Rhino is an avenue to discuss important environmental issues and to introduce your children to some big ideas, but the rough animation and story make this a kid-focused endeavor.  

Rent it.

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Riki Rhino is available in digitally and on demand.