I still haven’t made it out to see “WALL-E” since returning to the States, but today I thought I’d pop “Finding Nemo” into the player and soak up some of that old Andrew Stanton goodness in the meantime. And it really does stand-up as the most sensational entry in Pixar’s steadily increasing portfolio.
Back in 2003 the film landed in my top three for the year, and I’ve only given it two or three looks since. But every time I do, the reward is considerable. This is a sincerely affecting study, one packed with vivid and dynamic characters, the most gorgeous animation of the genre and applicable, resilient themes that work on various levels. It fires on all cylinders.
Not to mention, the film contains the only vocal performance I’ve personally ever deemed worthy of major awards consideration. “When I look at you I remember. When I look at you I’m home. I don’t want to lose that. I don’t want to forget.” Absolutely beautiful.
It also looks damn spectacular on an HDTV. I don’t have a Blu-ray copy of the flick, but on a simple upconvert the image is crystal clear, sparkling. Especially with the new 120Hz technology (which is dodgy with live action films).
So with that, I’ll probably stumble into the El Capitan over the weekend and finally take in Stanton’s latest. His is a creative mind and I’m truly happy he’s out there generating content such as this. Few compare.
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6 responses to “Revisiting ‘Nemo’”
All my friends were crazy about Nemo when it came out, and I have to agree that it’s unusually poignant and wonderful for a kid’s movie…even Pixar. I haven’t seen WALL-E yet either, but soon…
Yeah, it’s still their best film and for me probably unbeatable by anything else. WALL-E makes a pretty darn good case for that spot, though, matching its visual innovation, inspired narrative, and deeply felt characterizations. Both are PIXAR wonders, and simply put – masterpieces of the animated medium.
Kris, I’m anxious to hear your thoughts on Wall-E. I’m not the biggest fan of animation in general, but I love the Pixar films and I felt that Wall-E stands head and shoulders above all animated films I’ve seen in recent years. In fact, it’s one of the best and most romantic (yes, romantic) films I’ve seen in years. I cried several times.
I just rewatched Toy Story 2 the other night (for at least my fifteenth time total). Nemo and Wall-E both aim higher and have emotional depth that most animated films can’t even dream of, but for me, Toy Story 2 is where Pixar peaked. If there’s a tighter screenplay in the world, I haven’t seen it made into a film.
Wall-E is amazing on so many different levels. It certainly ranks with the best animated films ever made. Andrew Stanton is a genuis of the highest order. I left the theater in a state of awe at what I had just seen. If only most live action science fiction films were as good as this one.
I liked this movie, even with the beginning being somewhat emotional. The voice work was well done.