By Renee’ Collins
Rating: 4.5 (Out of 5 Reels)
Pixar’s latest movie gives us a look at the relationship between Mike (Billy Crystal) and Sulley (John Goodman) during their days at Monsters University. Turns out they weren’t great friends in the beginning.
All of the usual characters and several others are back in yet another great film from the team at Pixar. I am glad to see the Crystal/Goodman team back in action because they have created memorable and loveable characters. My favorite addition is Dean Hardscrabble, voiced by Helen Mirren whose work I truly enjoy because she can transform into whatever character she portrays convincingly and does so here as well. I think she is the best choice for the voice of the somewhat frightening dean of the college of scaring. I also noticed the voice of Nathan Fillion, another favorite, as Johnny, leader of the best fraternity on campus.
As per the Pixar norm attention is given to every detail in this film because it is stunning to look at. They convincingly create a college atmosphere in a monster world that includes a myriad of imaginative and inventive creatures. I find it interesting that Pixar chose to create a prequel exploring how these two lovable characters got into the scaring business. Although, I believe this film is a bit too long at almost two hours the story is a good one that young people should hear and hopefully learn from especially kids today. Turns out this film didn’t make me laugh as much as the first installment but I found the ending to be well done and worth the wait. So, in my book Monsters, Inc. will be my favorite unless they make another one that changes my mind. This film is for everyone, even those who are kids at heart.