Heartwarming saga of a gorilla and friends

The power of friendship and the importance of having a space to call home are at the forefront of this adaptation of K.A. Applegate’s much-loved novel. Disney has a long history of producing wonderful movies featuring anthropomorphic animals, and its latest looks set to become another classic for the studio; the fact that it’s inspired by a true story makes it even more incredible. Sam

Rockwell provides the voice for Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives in the Big Top Mall with his pals Bob the dog (Danny DeVito) and elephant Stella (Angelina Jolie). They’re cared for by owner Mack (Bryan Cranston, above, with Ivan), but their lives are about to be changed by the arrival of an abused baby elephant called Ruby.

Soon the animal pals are delving into their long-forgotten pasts, hatching a plan to escape and dreaming of freedom. Helen Mirren and Chaka Khan are also among the impressive vocal and live-action cast.