The Pixar Perspective: #9 - WALL-E (2008)

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

After a brief break just to renew interest in the lookback - as well as a small bit of socialising - The Pixar Perspective returns for the last six films in Pixar's roster, starting with the 2008 hit WALL-E. The last of the ideas made following Toy Story (alongside A Bug's Life, Finding Nemo and Monsters, Inc.), WALL-E is the story of a lovable rubbish-dispensing robot who seeks companionship with a futuristic scanning robot. Add some obese humans and an environmental message, and you get a rather enjoyable film. Whilst not as appealing to younger audiences than previous Pixar calibre (it appealed to me only in who made the film rather than its story when I saw it on initial release), it won the adoration of critics. But is it as good as top critics like Roger Ebert say it is?

First of all, you have the highly enjoyable romantic couple WALL-E and EVE. The titular character (voiced by Ben Burtt) is incredibly likable; he's the lovable loser who you root for throughout the film, and you feel emotional towards him in the third act when he's severely injured by AUTO. His relationship with EVE (Elissa Knight) is a beautiful one which many can relate to, with the feeling of a first kiss, the adoration you have for someone, etc. It's all very sweet. EVE herself is also a great character, developing from a cold character to the devoted carer of her disabled partner. Other characters, such as Captain B. McCrea (Jeff Garlin), are also enjoyable and great to watch.

The story itself is very much a romantic one, taking centre stage amongst the Buy 'N' Large posters and environmentalism. Unlike most romantic films or eco messages (Happy Feet being a notable one), WALL-E doesn't push it down your throat, easily blending the two together into a nice story. Add some slapstick comedy and silent greatness such as the space dance, it makes a great film.

The animation is beautiful, with space and trash never looking so luscious. The robots do look animated, but with a sense of realism within them. However, the usage of actual people to represent the past really pulls you out of the film and shows how unreal the animated humans look in comparison. They do play on that with the slow transition between human and animated, but it's brief.

WALL-E is back to the high ranks of Toy Story 2 and The Incredibles, with a great plot, some highly lovable characters and animation to die for. Outside the real humans and the slight overindulgence of eco-friendly storytelling, it makes a near-perfect film. 9/10

Next Time: I have just met you, and I love you!