A Great Film For Anyone and Everyone

Rating: 10/10 (29 June 2007)

Generally, Pixar has shied away from the realm of humanity in previous films, but Ratatouille finally marks their entry into human relationships and instead of focusing on the fantasy world of little critters, they provide a remarkably balanced picture of both (completely lovable) character ensembles. This is the essence of movie-making, people. The comedy hearkens back to ye olde days; this movie could have worked just as well as a silent film. Camera angles (if you'd like to call them that) are top-notch and provide an invigoration to the action that never gets old. The acting and writing are very smart; this isn't just a kiddy film. There are strong plot ties to egoism, relationships, and a rather Burton-esquire approach to critical cynicism, not to mention references to religion (*gasp*), alcohol (*gasp*), and illegitimate children (*gasp*) which are unfairly taboo in today's family films. My true thanks go out Pixar for making what is perhaps the best animated film in a very long time, one that can easily contend with Disney classics, and my new personal favorite animated feature.