The Pixar Perspective: #8 - Ratatouille (2007)

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

After a quick pitstop with Cars, Pixar returns to form here with Ratatouille, once again directed by Brad Bird following previous success The Incredibles. Another human-centric story, it's a completely new story which is just as smart and original as his previous features. Unfortunately, whilst it is still a good film, it is lacking in some areas which The Incredibles.

Protagonist rat Remy (Patton Oswalt) is a very likable character, with his incredible cooking talents and good charm making him a character the audience is happy to follow along in his journey from food scrounger to 5 star chef. Human companion Linguini (Lou Romano) is an equally likable character, but is perhaps too much of an idiot. He has some funny moments though, so works well as the comedic touch of the film. Love interest Colette (Janeane Garofalo) is rather one-note however, playing the tough bird until she falls in love. It's same-old same-old, but allows progression in the story. As for the villains, Anton Ego (the late Peter O'Toole) is rather menacing in his brief time onscreen. He has a huge presence throughout just by his last review, and his introduction in his office brings forth a villainous path for the film. As for main antagonist Skinner (Ian Holm), he only really helps with the chase scene in the second act. He's good, but is rather lacking in villainy - he just wants to make a profit. Other characters aren't really expanded on, whether they be rat or human.

The story is a strong one, with originality bleeding through the film. Many films would copy the idea of an animal having a human job (see Turbo), but here it is at its strongest. Add some great comedy and an excellent recreation of Paris, it really brings the story to life. As for the animation, it allowed some great representations of the way food tastes, but outside of that has little increase of animation quality. It is still great animation, especially with the food, but is no different to previous Pixar films.

Ratatouille has a great story, some likable characters and a grand villain, but it does feel like it needs more of a side order with its main dish. But the dessert is high class, and like Ego leaves me hungry for more. 7/10.

Next Time: I don't want to survive, I want to live!