Countless families have cherished Crockett Johnson’s Harold and the Purple Crayon since its publication in 1955. The timeless story of an adventurous toddler who creates entire worlds with his magical purple crayon is getting a delightful twist in its latest film adaptation. In this version, Harold has grown up in his fantastical world and decides to draw a door into the real, modern world.
An Adventure Beyond Imagination
Producer John Davis shares insights into the thrilling journey Harold embarks upon in the film. “Harold and his friends are transformed from characters on the page to adventurers on a journey of self-discovery,” Davis says. “Their story is brimming with passion, imagination, and a sense of heart.”
Oscar-nominated director Carlos Saldanha, who read the original story to his own children, brings a deep personal connection to the film. “The original story is very simple and charming,” he reflects. “I love the way this movie expands on it. In the book, Harold is very sheltered, but entering the real world exposes him to the harsh realities of everyday life. He discovers new emotions, becoming a more complete and fuller human character, all while retaining his innocence.”
A Star-Studded Cast
Playing the role of the intrepid Harold is Zachary Levi, who sees the film as more than an adaptation. “Harold and the Purple Crayon is a love letter to imagination itself,” Levi remarks. “There is no Harold without imagination. The power of imagination is just as integral to the movie as it is to the book.” When asked what he’d draw if he had Harold’s purple crayon, Levi opts for convenience. “The airplane scene was a lot of fun,” he says. “Maybe I’d draw a plane.”
Co-star Zooey Deschanel, who has also read the book to her children, shares her excitement. “I’ve been reading the book to my kids since they were really little,” she says. “It’s a much beloved book in my house, and I think this is the type of movie parents will want to go see with their kids.”
Rediscovering the Magic
Director Saldanha finds magic in something as mundane as a crayon and invites audiences to share that magic and rediscover the power of imagination. “Pick up a crayon, and the possibilities are endless,” he enthuses. “With everything happening in our daily lives, we forget the power of the imagination, the power of believing, the power of dreaming, and the power of ‘drawing’ your way into a better place. This film invites audiences to rediscover that magic.”
So, grab a friend and set off into a world of adventure as Harold and the Purple Crayon opens in Philippine cinemas on August 21. #HaroldAndThePurpleCrayon
Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”
