Better Than Expected!

Rating: 9/10 (2 October 2014)

Now before I start this review, I must ask did we need a prequel to 2001's Pixar hit, Monster's Inc? I didn't think so, but I was pleasantly surprised how lovely and amusing this film turned out to be. It was an interesting take to tell the story of Mike and Sully before their fame in the previously-mentioned film. This film is really appealing and colorful and this will charm newcomers and fans alike. As a Pixar film, it's a vast improvement on Cars 2 and Brave (which weren't bad, but not like Pixar.)
Don Scanlon's film brings us the return of Mike and Sully in their pre-Monsters Inc. days as we see them as bitter rivals at Monsters University. Because of some complications including everyone's doubt of Mike being a scarer, Mike and Sully team up to compete in the Scare Games which would show of they are any good after all.
With the return of Mike and Sully, of course we would have the return of the welcome voices, Billy Crystal and John Goodman. They didn't lose a step in the twelve years between film. Steve Buscemi also returns as Randall and does a really fine job. I also must mention Helen Mirren, because she gives her best animation work as the evil headmistress of the school.
Overall, Monsters University is a really sweet and charming Pixar film. I wasn't clamoring for a new film involving these characters, but I'm glad we got one. This isn't the best Pixar movie either nor the most original one, but it's still entertaining and a really nice way to take a trip down memory's lane. The animation is excellent and a good improvement and it's nice to have Randy Newman back as composer as he contributes a fun, jazzy score. This is perfect for both kids and adults alike and in that regard, it's another success for Pixar. I rate this film 9/10.