The perfect model for family entertainment.

Rating: Null/10 (23 January 2013)

This review was written with the 3D re-release of 'Monsters, Inc.' in consideration.
A decade after its original release, 'Monsters, Inc.' is remembered primarily for it's lovable characters, particularly the one-eyed 'Mike Wazowski'. Released before Pixar accrued true worldwide regard with 'Finding Nemo', the fourth feature film from the studio is as much a popular classic today as its successors. A fairly complex premise (for a young audience), built on a wildly original concept, drawn from something so simple as a fear of monsters lurking in the wardrobe, allows for a rousing ninety minute adventure.
While from the same era, the animation is notably advanced in comparison to 'Toy Story' and 'A Bug's Life'. Textures are detailed, facial expressions appear more natural and Sulley's well-conditioned fur remains one of Pixar's most striking achievements, the many individual strands moving freely with his mass. Disney's 3D post-conversion adds depth without draining the bright colours, and takes good advantage of the few shots where objects reach out to the audience. Justifying the conversion alone is the breathtaking climax, where Sulley and Mike navigate thousands of doors racing through the factory, the added depth creating for the audience the same sensation - that of being on a roller coaster - that the characters feel.
The gag reel and end credit sequences remain intact, as does Randy Newman's beautiful original score, maintaining a consistent emotional resonance throughout.
'Monsters, Inc.' is a thorough family affair, with a beautiful story arc and an uplifting sense of closure, mediating on the strength and unquestionable loyalty of true friendships. The film's antagonist lacks the clever character-based motive that shapes Pixar's finest villains, which does little to oppose detractors of the feature's tyke-friendly nature, though this detail is almost irrelevant as the film has found its audience in the decade it's been playing. 'Monsters, Inc' may be one of Pixar's earliest, but it's also one of their best.