The irresistibility of "Pixar" films is their charm and uniqueness. Audiences fawn over their films because of their ability to connect to audiences and leave an impact on them. The studios' recent hits like "Onward" and "Inside Out" are some of the studios' other features that have had an emotional intensity to them which made them a mature in nature film as well. This new film is another emotional film with stunning animation.
It keeps getting more and more adult every time a new film from "Pixar" comes out and I don't see that changing any time soon because the studio has found a way to make films more grown-up than in years past.
Starring in the film is Jamie Foxx and Tina Fey. Foxx stars as the lead protagonist, a band teacher who dreams of being a famous jazz musician. His performance in the film is entertaining, joyous, and exuberant in nature. It also comes across as comedic at times which is a plus. Tina Fey's character and performance are just as likable as her costar and it is just as comedic.
Like with every film "Pixar" has made, the animation is dazzling and spectacular. This film remains within the range of dazzling animation and is as big of a spectacle as you would imagine a film from the studio to be. Director Pete Docter once again showing off his talent in this next "Pixar" film. The film shines everywhere. From the magical animation, the deep thought-provoking premise, and the music, this film is one of the other films in the mature-grown-up category of films from the studio.
Scoring the magnificent film is Trent Reznor, Jon Batiste, Atticus Ross. The trio of music makers creates a score that is jazzy and rhythm and blues. It also at times is electric and upbeat. The score is a perfect element to blend with the ambiance of the film altogether.
Despite the unique and magic qualities of the film, I had noticed a few things I thought were offputting. These things include the character designs that I thought were wacky and unlike other films from the studio in the past. I also thought that the story, no matter the uniqueness of it is, I think it was a bit all over the place. It went everywhere without any idea to make sense of the film overall, which may throw viewers off a bit.
One of the best things about animated films is their ability to enchant audiences with dazzling imagery and an interesting story. "Pixar" is no exception to this standard. With each and every film they make the animation and stories are all stellar beyond expectations. This film may fall a bit short of films before it, but it still is another solid animated feature from "Pixar".
Poster courtesy of Disney-Pixar
Rate: B
Director: Pete Docter
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Tina Fey, Angela Bassett, Daveed Diggs, June Squibb, and Questlove
MPAA Rating: PG (for some language and thematic elements)
Runtime: 1 Hour and 47 Minutes
Synopsis: Joe is a middle-school band teacher whose life hasn't quite gone the way he expected. His true passion is jazz -- and he's good. But when he travels to another realm to help someone find their passion, he soon discovers what it means to have a soul.
