Between Shrek and Monsters inc.

Rating: Null/10 (8 March 2002)

Let's make a comparison between two mayor animated feature length movies: Shrek and Monsters inc. With Shrek Dreamworks proved that they could make an hilarious comedy (whether you like the voice casting and fart jokes or not) which looked stunning in the visuals. One thing lacked though, something that the guys at Pixar are well known for: Articulation. And i don't mean only facial articulation, i also mean: with the body-movement While Shrek tries to copy human-like poses with waving arms, straightening your hair etc, Monsters inc. shows real animation-like poses, reminiscent of two dimensional cartoons like Tom and Jerry. (they even skip frames to make characters move even faster then normal) In the documentary that is included on the dvd the guys at dreamwork brag about making Fiona less humanlike in her environment otherwise she stands out to much. What they mean is: We couldn't do any better. I'm not bashing Shrek. No, i liked Shrek. A lot. I thought Pixar couldn't top this one. But then i saw Monsters inc that blew me away. Shrek may have a more adult approach that works really well. But storywise they made a few mistakes. I think i'm quoting somebody by saying: It is not okay to judge somebody by appearance but they do make jokes about size. All in all without being too nittpicky, a highly enjoyable movie. Monsters inc. has a cute story to tell and some people who commented about it being too tame should consider this: It's much easier to go for a cheap laugh then to tell a story that could move you without it being cruel or rude. Shrek aims for parody and thus is ment for an older audience (but kids will like it as well, maybe on a slightly different level) Shrek has some awesome photorealistic settings but rather pathetic looking backgrounds. The guys start bragging again about 3 million different leaves that move on trees independently but it's hardly noticable. Pixar choose a much brighter color palette giving it a more cartoon-feel. And what about characters? Monsters inc. has plenty: The animation on Randall is superb. Boo is really cute. While shrek has a beautiful animated princess, Pixar goes overboard Mike Wakowski. While not the funniest character in the movie, his animation is nearly flawless. (And don't get me started on Sulley ) Love the snowman as well. And the nerdy monster with the braces. The little monster that shouts: "Mike Wakowski". Shrek doesn't top Monsters inc. Just wait untill you see the spectacular doorchase-scene. Let's be honest people. Shrek was a pretty damn good movie but didn't have so much settings and should be considered a well-done-parody on disney animations (while still beeing a story on it's own). Job well done. Monsters inc wasn't as hilarious as Toy Story but did tell a touching story. (and yes you could guess the ending after 20 minutes, But before you get to that point the story has taken different directions that make it worthwhile) Nonetheless: Animation-wise i'd prefer Pixar because they obviously know how to make a proper animated flick. But i'm still curious enough to see what dreamworks is up too. Both companies are both improving their work to "stay in the race". Dreamworks is still learning from each experience. I dunno, i kinda like it. Makes it worthwhile to go to the cinema. And please let's just forget that piece of crap: Final Fantasy.