Technically Proficient and a Really Fun Ride

Rating: 8/10 (8 March 2015)

Are we soon coming to a time when the truly life-like actions and representations of objects by animated films are taken for granted? I hope not.
"Big Hero 6" tells the story of a young boy and his robot. And I hope no one is taking for granted the amazing "cinematic effects" created via animation. These animators repeatedly fool the eye into thinking the images are created through the lens of a camera. To further this illusion, the point of view is what one might see through a camera. It is almost tempting to compliment the camera's movement, until you realize there is no camera. In the same vein, I love the "shots" through translucent (but not clear) glass, the slo-mo, and the depth of field created by "unfocused" objects in the background.
The overall style of the film is reminiscent of anime and classic sci-fi. And it starts with a mystery that our hero (Hiro) cleverly--with the aid of a clue that is genius in its simplicity and design--sets out to solve.
Time and again, the characters look and behave in very human ways. And since I am not yet ready to just accept such technical artistry as de rigeur, I say "Bravo!"
If you liked "The Incredibles" or "Wreck-it-Ralph", you will probably like "Big Hero 6".