Scarlett Johansson brought her signature vocal prowess to the animated musical landscape through her role in the 2016 film Sing. While the movie features an ensemble cast of famous actors lending their voices to anthropomorphic animals, Johansson’s character stands out as a central figure driving the narrative of artistic self-discovery.
The Core Identity: Ash
Within the vibrant world of Sing, Scarlett Johansson voices Ash, a teenage female porcupine defined by her fiery red quills and even hotter temper. Ash is introduced as the lead singer and guitarist of a struggling rock band composed entirely of animals. Her journey forms the emotional backbone of the film’s musical storyline, as she navigates the harsh realities of failed expectations and the pressure to conform to her boyfriend's vision for their band.
Personality and Motivation
Ash is characterized by her abrasive, punk-rock attitude and a desperate need for validation. Initially, her entire identity is wrapped up in the success of her band, causing her to dismiss the encouragement of her kind grandmother, played by Tori Spelling. Her motivation shifts dramatically after a devastating public breakup with her boyfriend and bandmate, prompting a soul-searching arc where she must decide between sticking to her rigid punk principles or embracing a more collaborative, pop-oriented sound to achieve commercial success.
Musical Contributions and Performance
Johansson’s background in voicing complex characters allowed her to deliver a performance that extended beyond simple dialogue. She performed all of Ash’s songs live during recording sessions, a decision that required extensive vocal training to capture the raw energy and slight raspiness essential to the punk genre. This authenticity is evident in tracks like "Set It All Free," which showcases her transition from a constrained, angry teen to an artist embracing liberation through music.
"Call Me" : A cover of the Blondie classic that introduces Ash’s band and her confrontational style.
"Set It All Free" : The anthem of self-discovery, marking her definitive break from the past.
"I'm Still Standing" : A duet that highlights her resilience by the film’s conclusion.
Thematic Significance
Ash’s character serves as a vehicle for the film’s exploration of artistic integrity versus commercial appeal. Her struggle resonates with anyone who has ever faced the choice between staying true to their roots or adapting to survive in a competitive industry. Through her interactions with the theater’s staff—particularly the wise mouse Mike—Ash learns that success is not a zero-sum game and that different genres and styles can coexist harmoniously.
Reception and Impact
Critical response to Johansson’s performance was largely positive, with reviewers praising her ability to convey vulnerability beneath the tough exterior. Her casting was seen as a smart move, utilizing her existing star power to attract an audience that might not typically watch an animated feature. The inclusion of her original music added a layer of credibility to the film’s depiction of the music industry.
Comparison to the Source Material
It is worth noting that the character of Ash does not appear in the original children’s book of the same name by British author Julia Donaldson. The filmmakers created the rock band subplot specifically for the movie to add dramatic tension and musical variety. Therefore, Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of Ash is an entirely cinematic invention, expanding the universe beyond the book’s scope to deliver a more mature subplot regarding ambition and relationships.
