“Monsters, Inc.” is a movie that particularly stands out from the rest of the Pixar discography solely because of its originality. So many Pixar movies pose the question, “what if (x) had feelings?” “Toy Story,” “Cars,” “A Bug’s Life” and even “Inside Out” all follow this formula. “Monsters, Inc.” stands out from these because of how inventive its premise is. The idea that monsters need to scare kids to power their economy is so original and ingenious that it’s impossible not to be hooked to the screen right from the start. Combine this with a high tempo jazz score the entire aura of this movie is unlike anything Pixar has ever done.
On top of the mind blowing complex, Pixar still delivers on their signature loveable characters. Mike Wazowski might be the most likable and hilarious character that Pixar has ever written. Billy Crystal pours his heart and soul into this character that he steals the spotlight from anything, everyone and everything else. The chemistry between Sullivan and Mike is so authentic that it feels like these two characters have been friends for years. John Goodman’s soft yet gravelly voice is perfect for Sully’s gentle giant persona. The father daughter relationship that is slowly built up between Sully and Boo is so heartfelt that when the two eventually split it feels like having your heart ripped out.
Lastly, the set pieces in this film are incredible. Particularly, the door sequence at the climax of the movie. As the Monsters jump through different doors, they keep jumping around different parts of the world. It’s the perfect example of taking the concept a movie is built on and completely and running with it all the way.
Between the ingenious concept and hilarious characters “Monsters, Inc.” is arguably Pixar’s most plain fun movie. It never tires itself out, and the jokes and action keep coming at full throttle. It may not be the most mature or emotionally complex Pixar movie, but if you wanted to see an hour and a half of pure entertainment, it’s hard to go wrong with “Monsters, Inc.”
Rating: Light 4
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