Checkered Ninja

Checkered Ninja pairs a mischievous, possessed ninja doll with a fearless teenage boy to chase justice after a poor factory worker is murdered. As they stumble through a busy city, the unlikely duo roars through misfit adventures, trading quips and clumsy stunts while navigating a world where power can corrupt and secrets hide under everyday surface. The doll, once a toy, finds purpose in the pursuit of truth, while the boy, named Aske, discovers courage he didn’t know he had. Their quest blends slapstick energy with darker stakes, creating a funny yet heartfelt tale about friendship and resilience. The movie keeps its energy high with chase sequences and gadget humor, with warm moments that show unlikely partnerships spark real courage.

Directed by Thorbjørn Christoffersen and Anders Matthesen, Checkered Ninja arrived in 2018 as a Danish animated adventure aimed at families. The film builds on original concepts by Mads Juul, Mads Themberg and Benjamin Agersted, with Matthesen lending the lead voice and shaping the film's fast paced humor. Production by Nordisk Film and its partners combines computer animation with zippy action and expressive character design, a hallmark of contemporary Scandinavian animation.

Critics praised its brisk pace, witty banter, and a deft mix of action and charm. Viewers note how the film balances slapstick with sharper social commentary, using a fantastical premise to explore friendship, resilience, and standing up to corporate greed without talking down to younger audiences. The humor lands for both kids and adults, with visual gags and clever lines that reward repeat viewing.

Its bold checkerboard aesthetic and family friendly humor helped it travel beyond Denmark, finding audiences in other European markets and on streaming platforms. Fans often praise the film for offering a rare blend of cheeky visual gags and heart, making it a memorable entry in modern animated comedies.