A marginally entertaining Pixar flick, is that really so bad?

Rating: Null/10 (12 July 2011)

**1/2 out of (****)
Pixar had a certified fresh winning streak. Starting all the way back from 1999 and ending with 2010, they held a candle to other competitive, blood-thirsty animation studios. The films were packed with solid character development and emotional depth. While it sent tears rolling down our cheeks, it tugged at our heart strings. However, for every undefeated battle, there has to be one defeat, and alas, it is "Cars 2". Hold the phone folks! You want to know why? Because this Pixar maniac actually sort of digs this little concoction.
Even with all the negative critical reception and the mixed audience reactions, I still walked in with confidence and excitement. Did the movie meet with my fullest expectations? No. But did it do the job? I'd say so. Sure you can argue the emotional depth isn't as deep, but the characters are still there, the story is there, and most importantly, the fun is still there.
First off, let's start with the characters. Before going into this movie, so many people were complaining about Mater hogging up the screen. I found that to be untrue. I actually loved Mater. I thought he had such a vivacious personality which in the end shined through and is just that goofy best bud you have. Lightning McQueen is that spiffy 'ol friend who has it all but has a heart and has good intentions. Then there's Sally who's lighthearted and looking out for her boyfriend and her boyfriend's buddy. But now, onto our new slue of cars.
Another complaint I heard was too many cars. Too many cars? We must've seen the wrong movie. Each and every car was developed to satisfaction and I thought every performance was a solid one. Pixar still has it in the bag. Furthermore, the animation is just absolutely outstanding. Visually, this is probably an Oscar contender. It's just so beautiful to look at and you're so easily immersed with this beauty.
Furthermore, the story. I thought it was pretty neat to try to reach to other countries and have some foreign appeal. Very good tie-in. I also thought the eco-friendly message was great too and this movie is just very strong in morals.
And folks, that's where all the positives stop. What are the problems? First and foremost, the pacing. The movie starts out pretty fun and upbeat, but it just sags as the film progresses. Had it not been for the sagging issue, this would be a solid 7. Moving on, the plot is unnecessarily convoluted and rather than exciting the viewer, sometimes leaves it in the dust.
Also, if you're wondering whether to pay those hefty 3D surcharges, save your cash. I thought since it was filmed in 3D and it was a very vibrant film, rich with detail and color, that it'd pop. Nope. The same 'ol 2D picture but with an edge. And those AMC IMAX's? PA-THETIC! I saw Cars 2 in IMAX 3D at an AMC chain. Worst. mistake. ever. You pay almost double your ticket for a screen slightly bigger and the sound slightly louder than usual. What a joke!
All in all, while Cars 2 has its flaws, what's so bad about them? Every movie has their problems, but all that matters is that the positives outweighs the negatives. As long as that happens, it's all good. I for one know I'll pick this one up on home cinema. It's a marginally passable effort, but an entertaining one at that.