The Pixar Perspective: #4 - Monsters, Inc. (2002)

An ongoing series looking back at the feature films from Pixar Animation Studios

Monsters, Inc. is often overlooked when discussing the films released in 2001 (released in 2002 in the UK), due to mega franchises Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Shrek all being released in the same year. It was only with the release of 2013 prequel Monsters University that the original received an increase in traction by audiences. But it was Pixar's first Best Animated Feature nomination - losing to Shrek during the Oscars - and was a box office hit. However, as much as I enjoy the film, it does sadly have many faults.

Firstly, the villains are a bit problematic. Randall (Steve Buscemi) becomes more of a henchmen than an actual threat to Sulley (John Goodman) and Mike (Billy Crystal), relying on his evil appearance and treatment to others once it's revealed that Mr Waternoose (James Coburn) was behind the upcoming scream regime, who too can't seem to make up his mind whether he's bad or not. However, where the villains fail the heroes succeed. Goodman and Crystal are one of Pixar's best double acts, and so far are above Woody and Buzz of Toy Story fame. They have a great rapport, thanks to recording in the same booth behind the scenes, and whilst it's obvious that the two will patch things up after their brief tiff it's still something you hope will happen. Add their friendship with Boo, who's doesn't have a clear voice due to being voiced by a two year old, and it brings a grand protagonist duo.

With the animation, it's great to see the advancements the studio have made with hair, with Sulley having great detailing across his body. There are no stray hairs (likely due to not being fully enhanced by the studio, as they do feature in future films), but it's acceptable when working with such an extensive amount. Monster designs are great, but over time they are just variations of other monsters, in different colours. It does lose the element of originality, and prequel Monsters University will repeat this. Detailing in sets is also a bit lacklustre, but seeing as the film is set mainly in an organisation, it's acceptable.

The humour is where the film really succeeds. Whilst the story is good and original, the humour manages to carry out the entire plot. Whether it be the outtakes and the company play during the end credits, the new stories about the missing child, or just something as simple as "using mainly spoons", the film has huge levels of hilarity, thanks to the delivery by the likes of Crystal and Goodman.

Whilst the film does once again have two inadequate villains and is a backstep in terms of animation quality for the studio, there are plenty of lovable characters and brilliant laughs, with an emotional ending which can make even the hardest of stone hearts crack. 7/10

Next Time: *in whale* We neeeed to finnnd his sooooon!