Ratchet and Clank Adoption Movie Review

Ratchet, an unassuming Lombax, hopes to leave his job as a mechanic’s assistant to join the Galactic Rangers in their quest to save the galaxy from the villainous Chairman Drek– and the Rangers have an opening. However, Ratchet is very small, and the heroic leader Captain Qwark, ridicules him and sends him away. However, with the help of Clank – a defective robot that Chairman Drek cast away – Ratchet saves the day, and is thrust into membership with the Galactic Rangers. However, Qwark becomes jealous of Ratchet’s growing popularity, and his jealousy leaves him vulnerable to manipulation by the Chairman, who is hungry for power.  

The Adoption Connection

Ratchet does not know his own history; he was found by the mechanic who he assists, and does not know where he came from. He bonds with Clank when he realizes that they both were found with “no notes, no message, no name.”

The mechanic with whom Ratchet lives fills somewhat of a father-like role for him.

Strong Points

Ratchet is initially discouraged, believing that he cannot be a hero. His father figure tells him, “To be a hero, you don’t have to do big things, just the right ones.” In doing the right things, Ratchet truly proves himself to be a hero.

When Ratchet starts to blame himself for something that went wrong, a character gives him sage advice, “Blaming yourself and taking responsibility are two different things.” Self-blame leaves you feeling bad; taking responsibility avoids the question of blame, and focuses on improving what went wrong, and doing it better next time.  

Challenges

It could be disillusioning to some when Ratchet’s hero does not live up to Ratchet’s expectations.

Recommendations

Ratchet and Clank is a positive, fun movie that has some good messages for young viewers. It seems best suited to kids between the ages of 5-10.

Questions for Discussion

What do you think makes someone a hero?

What is the difference between taking responsibility for something and blaming yourself for it? Can false blame stop us from taking responsibility?