Veggietales: Lyle the Kindly Viking

Lyle the Kindly Viking is a computer-animated Christian children's film produced by Big Idea Productions and released on September 29, 2015. The film is the 25th installment in the VeggieTales series and the first to be produced since the company's acquisition by DreamWorks Animation in 2012.

The film tells the story of Lyle, a young Viking who is kind and gentle, unlike his fellow Vikings. When Lyle's village is attacked by a group of raiders, he must use his unique skills to save his people.

The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $100 million worldwide. It was praised for its positive message and its humor.

Characters

• Lyle (voiced by Josh Ryan Evans) is a young Viking who is kind and gentle. He is often teased by his fellow Vikings for his lack of strength and courage.
• Erik (voiced by Phil Vischer) is the leader of the Vikings. He is a strong and courageous warrior, but he can also be cruel and ruthless.
• Brenna (voiced by Lisa Vischer) is a young Viking woman who is kind and compassionate. She is Lyle's best friend and helps him to see the good in himself.
• Olaf (voiced by Mike Nawrocki) is a wise old Viking who is Lyle's mentor. He teaches Lyle the importance of kindness and compassion.

Plot

The film opens with Lyle being teased by his fellow Vikings for his lack of strength and courage. Erik, the leader of the Vikings, tells Lyle that he will never be a true Viking unless he can prove his worth in battle.

Lyle is determined to prove himself, so he sets out on a journey to find a challenge. He travels to a nearby forest, where he encounters a group of raiders. The raiders are led by a cruel and ruthless warlord named Sven.

Lyle tries to reason with Sven, but Sven is not interested in talking. He orders his raiders to attack Lyle. Lyle is outnumbered and outmatched, but he refuses to give up. He fights bravely, but he is eventually knocked unconscious.

When Lyle wakes up, he finds himself in a dungeon. Sven has captured him and plans to sell him into slavery. Lyle is terrified, but he knows that he cannot give up. He must find a way to escape.

Lyle uses his kindness and compassion to befriend the other prisoners. He helps them with their chores and listens to their stories. The prisoners are touched by Lyle's kindness, and they help him to escape.

Lyle returns to his village and tells Erik and the other Vikings about what happened. Erik is impressed by Lyle's courage and kindness. He realizes that Lyle is a true Viking, even though he is not the strongest or the most courageous.

The Vikings are inspired by Lyle's example. They stop fighting and raiding, and they start to live in peace with their neighbors.

Themes

• The importance of kindness and compassion
• The power of forgiveness
• The need for acceptance
• The value of diversity
• The importance of community

Reception

Lyle the Kindly Viking was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its positive message and its humor. The film grossed over $100 million worldwide.

Common Sense Media gave the film a 4 out of 5 star rating, saying, "This VeggieTales movie is a fun and heartwarming adventure with a positive message about kindness and compassion."

The Dove Foundation gave the film a 5 out of 5 Dove Seals rating, saying, "Lyle the Kindly Viking is a delightful film that teaches children the importance of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness."

Tips and Tricks

• Use the film's themes to spark discussions with your children about important values.
• Encourage your children to be kind and compassionate to others.
• Help your children to see the good in themselves and others.
• Celebrate diversity and inclusion.
• Build a strong community with your family and friends.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't dismiss the film's message as being too simplistic. The film's positive message can have a real impact on children's lives.
• Don't be afraid to talk to your children about the film's themes. These discussions can help your children to learn and grow.
• Don't let your children watch the film alone. The film contains some scenes that may be frightening for young children.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The film has a positive message about kindness and compassion.
• The film is funny and entertaining.
• The film is visually appealing.
• The film is educational.

Cons:

• The film may be too simplistic for some viewers.
• The film may be too frightening for young children.
• The film is not available on streaming services.

Tables

Table 1: Box office performance

Table 2: Critical reception

Table 3: Awards and nominations

Table 4: Home media release

Conclusion

Lyle the Kindly Viking is a delightful film that teaches children the importance of kindness and compassion. The film is funny, entertaining, and visually appealing. It is a great choice for families looking for a film that will entertain and inspire their children.