‘Crow: The Legend’ Review: John Legend Leads a Musical Tale of Native American Mythology

As a part of the Native American Heritage month, Baobab Studios released Crow: The Legend, a CGI short film that is the first VR movie to incorporate an indigenous world view. Directed, written and produced by veteran animator Eric Darnell (Antz, Madagascar franchise) and executive produced by John Legend, a story of sacrifice and community, the short is about Crow, the most popular and admired animal in the forest with his magnificent colours and beautiful voice,  but when the very first winter arrives, can Crow make the ultimate sacrifice to save his friends?

The short film, available today in VR on YouTube and Oculus, boasts a talented multicultural and multi-talented voice cast led by Legend. The short also stars Oprah Winfrey, who makes her virtual animation film debut as The One who Creates Everything by Thinking; Kiowa-Caddo Tribal Elder Randy Edmonds as the Narrator; Native Americans in Philanthropy CEO Sarah Eagle Heart as Luna, aptly named after Legend’s daughter; Liza Koshy as Owl; Diego Luna as Moth; Tye Sheridan as Turtle; and Constance Wu as Skunk.

Crow: The Legend feels like the first instalment in what could be a fantastic collection of VR animations adapting Native American legends. As a standalone, it’s a solid addition to the growing VR catalog and a good showing for Baobab, owing to the timeless tale it draws from and the impressive cast who brings the story to life. So take a few minutes out of your day, give it a watch, learn a thing or two, and then share the magic of Crow: The Legend!