Monsters University

Pixar Animation Studios is one of the most talented and consistent production companies in Hollywood. Commerically and critically almost all of their films are extremely successful. They practically changed face of animation in film with Toy Story in 1995, using a computerized style that was drastically different from the hand drawn Disney films of old. Cars 2, a sequel that no one wanted, was a major drop off in quality and box office gross. Brave, while successful at the box office, didn't really get the rave reviews that most of their films have received. Personally these two didn't really seem interesting to me, so I skipped them both. As a fan of basically everything else Pixar does, I was excited for Monsters University. Monsters Inc., released in 2001, is one of Pixar's most beloved films. University is a prequel to Inc., and is a worth follow up, and another fantastic Pixar entry. Once again, Pixar provides a perfect mix of social commentary, heart, and comedy to attract children and adults.

Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal) has always dreamed of attending the famed Monsters University. This is where "scarers" are trained to hone their craft and eventually land a job at Monsters Inc. scaring children and providing energy. Mike is the hardest working and most ambitious student there, with only one problem: he's not scary. James "Sully" Sullivan (John Goodman) is the antithesis of Mike; naturally talented, without an ounce of hard work and drive. But after a run in with the dean of the school (Helen Mirren), these two have no choice but to team up in order to fulfill their dreams as scarers.

First and foremost, University is funny. Kids and adults will be pleased with the mix of jokes and physical comedy. Pixar has created an alternate monster universe that is charming despite the fact that it is filled with horrible monsters. Mike and Sully have real personalities that are identifiable, especially the ambitious Mike. The film opens with Mike as a small child, depicting where his scaring dreams come from, and it is about as cute as it gets. Sully is still likable despite the fact that he is brash and arrogant, a difficult feat. Monsters Inc. has shown us that these two are best friends, and it is great to see how it came to be.

Leave it to Pixar to produce a children's film that is layered with subtext. This is nothing new, as their prior films contain certain messages as well. Wall-E might be the biggest example, with its anti-consumerist and environmentalist messages practically spelled out. Toy Story 3 is all about growing up and letting go. The Incredibles might be the most interesting commentary; the message essentially comes down to the fact that some people are more gifted than others, contrary to the "everyone is special" message that most movies offer. University somewhat follows The Incredibles. Mike is the hardest working monster in school, yet he can't seem to fully succeed. He is just not talented enough to be a scarer, although he eventually realizes what he is good at. This is a realistic and important message for children. Just because it is your dream to be an NBA basketball player doesn't mean you should sell out to attain it if you are 5'4" and can't jump. Finding what you are good at and the gifts that God gave you, whether glamorous or not, is an important step in growth and maturity. Monsters praises hard work on realistic goals, something I appreciated.

Towards the end of the film (spoilers ahead!), another important and culturally counter message is offered. Eventually Mike and Sully get kicked out of school. And after their biggest efforts, they don't get back in. Instead of trying to keep going to college, the pair are shown via photos  working their way up at Monsters Inc., and realizing their dream job by starting in the mail room. Our culture today basically screams to kids that in order to be successful, you MUST attend a four year college. Anyone who just goes straight to work after high school is seen as less bright, and on a path to a crummy life. I think that college education is important (I received a bachelor's degree from a 4 year university, and am a year away from a law degree), but college is not the necessary path for everyone. Mike and Sully turn out just fine working their way up in the company. Some people just aren't wired for more education, and I don't think we as a society should force it upon anyone. Not being "college material" doesn't have to be a detriment, it just means that your talents lie elsewhere. I am impressed that Pixar chose to take this culturally opposite view, one that frankly needs to be voice more often.

Pixar has returned to form with Monsters University, which is delightful for the young and old. The voice acting and animation are as top notch as ever, and the new characters introduced in this second entry are as vibrant as the first. Monsters has been my favorite movie of the summer, and I will be shocked if Pixar doesn't rack up another Oscar for their work on it!

4/5