Leo: A Musical Journey Through Tweenhood with a Snarky Turtle and a Wise Lizard

In the heartwarming Netflix movie musical “Leo,” the voices of Bill Burr and Adam Sandler bring to life the adventures of two unique classroom pets, a snarky turtle and a mild-mannered lizard. Set in a 5th-grade classroom, the film explores the insecurities and triumphs of the last year of elementary school, offering a blend of coming-of-age charm and irreverent humor.

Leo, the 74-year-old lizard voiced by Adam Sandler, discovers his special gift for helping kids navigate the challenges of approaching middle school. The character humorously laments his weariness with the classic tale of “Charlotte’s Web” and provides a comedic take on the intricacies of growing up.

The movie, created during the pandemic, was a collaborative effort involving members of the Saturday Night Live (SNL) family, including Sandler, Cecily Strong, co-writer/director Robert Smigel, and animators Robert Marianetti and David Wachtenheim. Drawing inspiration from their own experiences as parents of elementary school children, the team crafted a story that resonates with both kids and adults.

Sandler, in particular, modeled Leo’s gravelly voice after Bernie Brillstein, a late talent manager and grandfatherly figure to many SNL cast members. Reflecting on Brillstein’s jovial demeanor, Sandler recalls how his voice brought comfort and laughter.

The characters in “Leo” represent the diverse personalities found in a 5th-grade classroom – from the motormouth to the popular girl, the class bully with a secret, and the kid ashamed of his high voice. The film beautifully captures the mix of confidence and fear that children experience during this transitional period.

“When you’re a kid, there’s stuff you don’t want to blurt out to your parents,” says Sandler. “Leo allows these kids to talk, just like you would with your grandparents.”

The pandemic played a significant role in shaping the narrative, with Smigel and Sandler drawing inspiration from their own children’s experiences. Sunny Sandler, Sadie Sandler, Roey Smigel, and Ethan Smigel, the children of the creative team, lend their voices to various characters, adding a personal touch to the film.

“Leo” is not just kid-friendly; its oddball and irreverent humor, especially evident in the songs penned by Smigel, resonates with adults. With Jason Alexander voicing the hilariously self-absorbed dad of the popular girl, the film delves into themes of parental pressure and the pursuit of perfection.

In a standout musical number, the dad boasts about securing “extra time” for his daughter on schoolwork, turning it into a Broadway-style performance. Leo, the wise lizard, counters the popular girl’s confidence with a dose of tough love, reminding her that nobody is perfect.

The film’s overarching message, delivered through Leo’s comforting words, is a reminder that “everybody’s scared.” Smigel emphasizes the importance of telling children that they are neither better nor worse than anyone else – a powerful and reassuring message.

“Leo” takes audiences on a heartfelt journey through tweenhood, blending humor, music, and life lessons. As Leo and his friends navigate the challenges of growing up, the film encourages viewers, both young and old, to embrace their insecurities and remember that they are not alone in their fears.

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