The Croods

The Croods follows a prehistoric clan trying to survive in a world where every day brings new dangers. Grug, the family patriarch, keeps strict rules so his wife Ugga, daughters Eep, son Thunk and fiery Gran stay safe inside their cave, while they forage by daylight. When Guy, a more inventive and forward-thinking outsider, turns up claiming the old ways won't be enough to survive an oncoming catastrophe, his ideas unsettle Grug and intrigue Eep. The family faces a choice about whether to cling to familiar safety or step out into a landscape of wonder and risk. They encounter odd beasts and landscapes, mixing slapstick danger with tender moments, and Grug's rigid rules prompt new perspective and steady personal growth.

Released in 2013 and directed by Kirk DeMicco, the movie grew from an original story credited to Chris Sanders and John Cleese, and showcases a starry voice cast including Nicolas Cage. It features Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds and Catherine Keener.

Critics gave mixed to positive reviews, with a 6.928/10 audience vote average reflecting general appreciation for the vibrant animation and energetic voice work, while some noted familiar plot beats. The film centers on family loyalty, fear of change, and youthful curiosity. Audiences praised family-friendly humor and the creature design too.

The interplay between Grug's protective urgency and Eep's free spirit, along with Guy's clever ideas, made the characters memorable to families. The movie helped cement Emma Stone, Ryan Reynolds and Nicolas Cage as recognizable animated voices for mainstream audiences. It also spawned toys and TV tie-ins that kept it visible.

The Croods connected with broad family audiences and performed strongly at the box office worldwide, turning into a reliable seasonal hit and supporting further franchise development. Its box office strength encouraged follow-up projects and boosted the film's merchandising.