Quartile rating: 7/10 · 1 rating
When the Primm family moves to New York City, their young son Josh struggles to adapt to his new school and new friends. All of that changes when he discovers Lyle — a singing crocodile who loves baths, caviar and great music — living in the attic of his new home. But when Lyle’s existence is threatened by evil neighbor Mr. Grumps, the Primms must band together to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places.
Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is a charming family musical adaptation of the beloved children's book, elevated by Shawn Mendes voicing Lyle with genuine warmth and some catchy original songs. The plot follows a fairly predictable arc — outsider finds belonging, antagonist threatens happiness, community rallies — with few surprises and a rushed, convenient resolution. Acting from the human cast (including Javier Bardem as the eccentric Hector) is energetic and committed, landing solidly above average. Cinematography is competent and colorful, capturing New York City with a storybook warmth appropriate for the material. Novelty earns a modest boost for its unusual central character — a musically gifted crocodile rendered in a live-action/animation hybrid — giving it a slightly distinctive feel among family films, even if the broader formula is familiar. The ending wraps up too neatly and quickly to feel fully earned, leaving emotional resonance on the table.