A fun flick that's genuine and expertly crafted, but isn't too funny and has a pretty weak plot: it isn't as good as the first, but still worth your time.

Rating: 7/10 (9 August 2016)

'Finding Dory' is the both long-awaited sequel to 'Finding Nemo', one of the most beloved animated films of all time, and the latest entry to Pixar's archive of (mostly) stellar movies. Their work has almost become its own genre, with many critics referring to something as 'Pixar-esque' as a high compliment, and has frequently set the bar in terms of quality. They have had a bit of a slump recently, even last year's 'The Good Dinosaur' fell short of the studio's own standard. Luckily, 'Finding Dory' is a competent and enjoyable picture with some fantastic animation and voice work. It doesn't come close the the quality of its predecessor, but it's still good and fun to watch throughout.
The plot initially seems like a rehash of the first, and becomes generic after a fairly compelling opening. The first act goes on like this, with all of the necessary story beats being hit in a conventional way. I wasn't exactly removed from the picture, but I felt a disconnect as I was painfully aware of the film itself whilst trying to be sucked into the world it created. Luckily, this doesn't last long as after the familiar first act the film kicks into gear with the second. After an out-of-place chase scene, the titular Blue Tang stumbles across a marine-life rescue centre; this is where the majority of the flick takes place, and also where it's at its most interesting. I found this act engaging, with the scenario making for some unique set-pieces and additional characters. By taking the action out of the ocean, the team at Pixar were able to mould a different experience from 'Finding Nemo'. It is when the movie differs from expectation that it is at its best, and I became invested in it to the point where the conventional plot-points weren't as noticeable. The final act is a little far-fetched, but features a lot of fast-paced action with slapstick peppered throughout. It is enjoyable but a little brash and seemingly at odds with the film before it. The main issue with the plot arises because of one of its key components. There is an inherent frustration present due to Dory's condition, a character trait which also means that there is a reliance on coincidence and repetition. For me, some of the 'fun' from the forgetting isn't there as I quickly found the joke tiring. But it is handled well on the whole, with sincere moments sprinkled throughout that help keep the film and its themes authentic.
The writing here is very good, Andrew Stanton and Victoria Strouse are great at making these talking fish relatable and likable. Every aquatic animal is anthropomorphised excellently, with small quirky interactions working best. There's snappy banter between couples on more than one occasion, and the smaller roles often provide some of the most memorable moments. It is refreshing to find a script that's consistently well-written, each role is treated with the same amount of care - no matter how small. The voice work is also exceptional. Each cast member gives a believable and natural performance, which - paired with the great writing and animation - makes every character feel rounded and real. Ellen DeGeneres is really good as the lead, giving an emotive and personal performance which adds a level of credibility. Albert Brookes, Ed O'Neill, Ty Burrell and Kaitlin Olson are marvellous in supporting roles. O'Neill especially breathes life into an interesting character that frequently plays to his vocal strengths. Idris Elba, Dominic West, Eugine Levy and Diane Keaton all play smaller parts but their presences are all keenly felt.
Animation-wise, the movie is sublime. The ocean looks like the ocean, both from in its depth and above its surface. I can't emphasis how nice the water looks, it's realistic - in both its viscosity and the way it interacts with the environment - but still suits the cartoon- esque aesthetic. The lighting is really great too. The characters are very well realised, with the lip-syncing looking perfect and the movements complex. The twelve principles are clearly on display, with timing and exaggeration being especially prevalent. I like the design of all of the characters, the returning ones have never looked better. There are more people on display this time, and they are brought to life well; they're probably some of the best humans in a Pixar film, looking stylalised yet refined. In terms of the music, Thomas Newman delivers a welcome and ranged film-score that's unfortunately rather forgettable. It works in the moment, always complementing what's on screen, but sums up to some fairly nondescript music that doesn't rank very high among his prior work.
Overall, 'Finding Dory' is a well animated and voice acted film that's genuine; it has been expertly and lovingly crafted. Its plot takes a while to get going, is a little unbelievable and isn't too funny but this is still a worthy sequel to 'Finding Nemo' that is never quite as good but tries its best: 7/10