My Mind is Going

Friday, December 12, 2008

When did it become un-American?

to make a wage that allows someone to support their family

buy a house

drive a reliable car

start a family

send their kids to college

see their kids have more opportunities that they themselves had

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

Wall-e - a capsule review

Wall-E Pixar/Disney Studios

3.5 stars out of 4

Is this my favorite Pixar move?

Nope, it doesn't top the change in storytelling found in The Incredibles, nor the beauty and enjoyment of Finding Nemo.

The only reason a half star was knocked off was the plot got very predictable in the last quarter. Kids probably won't notice, but the teens and adults probably will.

Most reviews mention the lack of dialogue in this movie, particularly during the first 20-30 minutes, as if it is something to be wary about.

I think this says more about the sorry state of American cinema and the lowest common denominator audience that studios pander down to.

The last American animation studio that attempted anything like what is seen (and not heard) in the beginning of this movie was, fittingly, Walt Disney with Bambi. And obviously, 2001 had little spoken dialog throughout the film.

In my opinion, the strongest part of the movie is the beginning where there is little said. Great animation and characterization conveys everything needed.

Like all Pixar movies, that animation is beautiful and superbly done. I'm really curious what it took to render a scene in this movie. There's a lot of detail in the space and earth scenes.

Of course John Ratzenberger is in it.

And it has Fred Willard, who doesn't like Fred Willard?

And Louis Armstrong. Nice touch of music there.

And yes this is a "message" movie. More than one actually. Those plotlines are obvious and there really isn't a need to go into detail.

And of course there is a short before the film. Very, very nicely animated. And humorous. One of the better shorts preceding a Pixar feature.

If you have the misfortune to sit through the Bolt, Chihuahua, and Madasgascar 2 trailers, this movie reminds you why Pixar is heads and shoulders the best American animation studio.

And yes I know Bolt is a Disney picture. Started before Disney and Pixar married.

Sunday, December 09, 2007

War on Christmas - Day 17

This year's WoXMAS has been a big disappointment compared to last year.

Other than missing window gel gems, and some minor ornament loss, Asimov just isn't as into it this year.

Little slacker.