About Rio

Rio is a 3D animated film released in 2011 by Blue Sky Studios and 20th Century Fox. The vibrant colors and captivating soundtrack transport the audience to the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The film tells the story of Blu, a domesticated Spix's Macaw who cannot fly, residing in Minnesota. His ordinary life dramatically changes when he learns that he is the last male of his kind. Blu, along with his owner, Linda, decides to go to Rio to meet Jewel, the last female of the species. However, their plans get thwarted when bird smugglers kidnap them. The film then chronicles Blu's adventure as he tries to escape from his kidnappers with Jewel.

Making / Production

Rio is directed by Carlos Saldanha, who created the film as a tribute to his homeland, Brazil. The production took almost four years to complete. The animators traveled to Rio de Janeiro and also consulted with several experts on Macaws to authentically capture their movements and behavior.

Actors

• Jesse Eisenberg voices Blu, providing an endearing neuroticism to the character.
• Anne Hathaway lends her voice to Jewel, the independent and strong-willed female Macaw.
• George Lopez plays Rafael, navigating his smooth-talking toucan character with ease and comic timing.
• Will.i.am and Jamie Foxx play Pedro and Nico respectively, who provide musical moments and funny banter throughout the film.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The character of Blu is based on a real Spix's Macaw named Presley, who was found in Colorado in 1987.
• The film features several references to famous movies and pop culture, including "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "The Girl from Ipanema".
• Director Carlos Saldanha originally pitched the idea for Rio in 1995 but had to wait until 2009 to start work on it due to other commitments.

Awards

Rio bagged numerous awards upon its release. These included the Teen Choice Award for Choice Animated Movie Voice (Anne Hathaway as Jewel) and the ASCAP Award for Top Box Office Films. The movie was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song (“Real in Rio”).

Quotes

• "I know I'm free!" - Blu
• "We're chained to each other, birdbrain!" - Jewel
• "Say that to my face.. you mean.. on second thought don't!" - Nico
• "I'm not an ostrich!" - Blu

Music and Soundtrack

• "Real in Rio" - composed by Sergio Mendes and performed by the film's cast.
• "Let Me Take You To Rio" - performed by Ester Dean and Carlinhos Brown.
• "Hot Wings (I Wanna Party)" - performed by will.i.am and Jamie Foxx.
• "Fly Love" - performed by Jamie Foxx.