Imagine if you'd had a six-foot tall monster to help you through the rough times when you were 11! Willy is terrified about moving into the family's new house. He's convinced it's filled with evil space aliens out to get him. In response to his wish for someone to save him, Gooby comes to life as a loveable, full-size, scraggly, orange, furry creature who in fact seems more frightened of the world than Willy. The two have hair-raising adventures and learn something about the power of friendship. In the end, Gooby fulfills Willy's initial wish by bringing Willy and his dad together in a touching and exciting climax.
Practical Effects
Gooby suit looks like a car wash mascot having an existential crisis.
Acting
Eugene Levy somehow commits to every frame like this is Oscar bait.
Writing
Dialogue that makes you wonder if adults have met children.
Director
Wilson Coneybeare
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was filmed in Ontario with a budget that suggests everyone was paid in Tim Hortons gift cards.
Gooby is essentially a Canadian Donnie Darko for children who haven't developed irony yet. The 'imaginary friend as monster' trope here accidentally stumbles into genuine psychological territory about children processing divorce.
US
