The Imaginary

Rudger is Amanda’s imaginary friend, sharing magical adventures with the creative young girl who brought him to life. Though invisible to most, Rudger is as real as can be to Amanda, even if her mother worries that her daughter may be overdependent on the imaginary companion.

Rudger and Amanda’s carefree world is shattered when they encounter Mr. Bunting, a sinister figure who hunts and devours imaginary friends to sustain his own existence. After a terrifying chase leads to Amanda being hospitalized, Rudger finds refuge in a library that serves as a sanctuary for forgotten imaginary friends. But with Bunting still hunting him and Amanda’s life hanging in the balance, Rudger must find the courage to risk his existence for the girl who created him.

An animated film from Japan, The Imaginary is perhaps more whimsical and strange than we may be used to. Still, it creatively explores the power of imagination and the meaning of friendship, especially when faced with the inevitable tragedies of life, offering a heartfelt message about growing up without losing touch with your imagination. The film is rated PG, but some scenes involving the dark imagination of the malicious Mr. Bunting may be too intense for very young viewers.

This film is currently streaming on Netflix.

Runtime: 1 hours, 45 minutes
Rated PG
91% on Rotten Tomatoes
IMDb Parents Guide
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