Surprisingly dark and violent for a kids film

Rating: 1/10 (10 April 2005)

With the on-set of numerous law suits, which are costing the Government millions, super-heroes are forced to go into hiding under the witness protection program. Forced to lead mundane, ordinary lives and go under societies radar; one of these heroes turned civilians is Bob Par (aka Mr. Incredible aka voice of Craig T. Nelson) and his wife Helen (aka Elastigirl aka voice of Holly Hunter). But life is difficult for the Par family; especially with their three confused children. Especially for Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell) and little brother Dash (Spencer Fox) who have grown up believing their super-human powers are a flaw, not an asset. On-top of family crises, Bob isn't happy. He misses the 'old days' and tries to cling to his past by keeping in touch with his old friend Frozone (aka Lucius Best aka voice of Samuel L. Jackson) and listening to police radios for the 'low down'. So when Bob is approached by Mirage (Elizabeth Peña) who offers him a chance to step back into the limelight, he jumps. But the tests Bob is put through; like defeating a ball robot; are really apart of Mirage's evil boss Syndrome's (jason lee) attempt to wipe-out superheroes until he is the only one left. Now it is a matter of Helen and her children working together to save their Incredible father.... and the world.
While "The Incredibles" had praise heaped upon it; I simply cant see what all the fuss was about. There are no gags in this film whatsoever. Pixar's usual trademark wry, adult humor are not at all present in this film and it is sorely lacking because of it. And despite the glossy, bold colorings; it is essentially a dark film. There are moments of conflict which are entirely too serious for a children's movie; and a little uncomfortable. And while I am not one of those people who rambles on about violence in the movies and TV affecting today's youth; there is a lot of violence in this animation, and it is simply too excessive not to comment on. A lot of guns; which, despite being computer-graphics, are still very real in appearance and frequently used. Lots of explosions, crashes, punches etc... I know this is a film about super-heroes and villains; but I just couldn't get past how unsettling it all was. And trust me when I say it is odd for me to comment on such a thing; I am usually one of those people complaining about how up-tight all those PG13 lovers are.
The Incredibles lacks the charm and essential wit normally characterized by a Pixar film. In comparison to its predecessors, "The Incredibles" is incredibly lacking. It is unfunny, uninteresting and all of the violence is somewhat unnecassary. What a disappointment. But hey; if you want to jump onto the band wagon, go right ahead. When has quality ever really gotten in the way of that sheep-mentality anyway?