Pixar roll on.

Rating: 9/10 (20 February 2010)

Marvellous. The best thing is that Pixar are taking risks. Although the sentiment of the story is pure Americanism, the aesthetic of the film goes far beyond Disney-lite. If it lacks some of the darkness of The Incredibles, it reaffirms their artistic credentials in other, delightful ways. They are in danger of building a post-modern aesthetic that surpasses anything in the mainstream in it's attention to detail. Amelie is an obvious touchstone. It reminds me of an effort like 101 Dalmations, where Disney fused their own style with another brilliantly realised aesthetic, but this is a far tighter, sharper effort.
Just like a great chef, they are broadening the pallets of the customer, whilst totally satisfying their appetites. If the story was a little light, the moments were presented in a highly winning fashion. The effect is infectious and surprising.
You may indeed feel like a cynical critic who has been transported back to the purest sensations of his/her childhood.
Bravo!