What makes a true hero?

Rating: 9/10 (24 June 2005)

The Incredibles is a fantasy, a study in what makes a true hero, a superbly done animation, and a real story. How did they achieve all of these things, and in an era of greed and blockbuster-oriented movies-by-committee? Disney/Pixar gave writer/director Brad Bird the freedom to fully exploit his considerable talents, and we have this resulting masterpiece.
When I first heard of this movie, I assumed it was a children's film and put it on my back burner list of movies to eventually see. When I finally got a hold of the DVD I was amazed to discover that it is in fact a sophisticated, humorous, and affectionate poke at superhero movies and comic books. In fact, you can take the movie as a giant comic book on one level, but on another level there is some significant social commentary.
What makes a true hero? Is it his or her talents and abilities (in this case, the ability to knock down buildings or stretch like a rubber band or run super-fast)? Or is it something more subtle, something in the spirit, the courage to face up to one's foibles and weaknesses and overcome them and in doing so, make the world a better place. Is it better to celebrate mediocrity, the concept that everyone is "special", or should we not celebrate the exceptional ones among us, uplift them and admire them for their special contributions to the world? If you are a thoughtful person, this movie will leave you asking these questions. It will also leave you laughing--the dialogue is hilarious, the characters realistic and believable. The romance-obsessed teenager, the mischievous little boy, the housewife who is suppressing her true heroic nature, and the husband withering away in a cube farm--these are people you meet every day, and you might be one of them. I can relate to the cube farm, myself.
I highly recommend this movie, and I eagerly await Mr. Bird's next effort.