Guys. This movie. GUYS.
I was optimistic about this movie, but I didn't set my hopes too high. The trailers clearly implied that it would be a classic storyline, but the animation and the humor looked promising. So I expected it would be fun, but nothing to write home about.
Scratch that. I AM TOTALLY WRITING HOME ABOUT THIS ONE, GUYS. I am in love! It was brilliant, and the animation was flawless. If you were on the fence about it, please go see it!
Here's my full review from Letterboxd.
***
This movie is perfect.
I was optimistic going into this movie. The trailers were funny and promising--but it was still obvious we were in for a classic "hit rock bottom and go for your dreams" storyline. I would have been satisfied if this movie ended up being a cliched, but decently done, animated romp.
I was incredibly impressed and delighted when it ended up being more than that.
It is the classic "rock bottom, big dreams" storyline, but it's done brilliantly. The story is strong with no obvious holes throughout. Even though there's a myriad of characters, their subplots are all given balanced development and tied in well, so none of it feels extraneous or tacked-on. There's also a huge variety in the characters; they all have unique life stories, several of which are touching. The use of music throughout to convey emotion is powerful and helps bring a classic story to a deeper level.
Furthermore, the animation is spotless. It's smooth and detailed, and there were several scenes throughout with masterful, innovative shots and effects that made me pause and consider the art.
I would watch this movie again in a heartbeat. It is absolutely on par with the movies Disney and Pixar put out this year. I am very excited to see what else Illumination will produce in the future.
