Bolt (2008)

Rating: 8/10 (22 November 2008)

Perhaps I went in to the theater with expectations that were a little too high. I did enjoy many aspects of this film, such as the many Pixar references and the spoof of the Hollywood entertainment industry in general. The gags involving the pigeons from around the country was clever, and I loved the heavy national theme of this film. When I first heard about Bolt I was hoping for a scene like the one in which we see Bolt, Mittens, and Rhino traveling through the United States from East to West, and I was happy to see that they delivered in that respect.
I found the plot to be a little unoriginal, as it reminded me of Homeward Bound, Finding Nemo, and even a little bit of Toy Story 2 all rolled into one. The Toy Story 2 similarity (Involving Mittens), however, was done very well and quite subtle, moreso even than Toy Story 2. I guess I've just been spoiled by Pixar, but I think it's clear that Disney Animation Studios hasn't quite broken out of its tendency to cater specifically to children, and I feel that Bolt is no exception.
I did appreciate the imagery very much though; I felt the animation and settings were superb. It had a real sense of culture in addition to its emotional content, which is what reminded me of Finding Nemo. I actually think the best part of this film involves a certain character learning to let go of the Hollywood lifestyle and live more simply, with the help of those around him; that seemed to be a very universal message, and should have been the main plot of the film, I feel, because it was done so well, and was very heartfelt and sincere. I think this is a story that is going to hit home the hardest for animal-lovers, as they will be able to relate best to the main plot, but I feel that everyone can find something about this film to relate to and laugh about, no matter what your age or geographical location.
A respectable 8/10.