A look at the relationship between Mike and Sulley during their days at Monsters University -- when they weren't necessarily the best of friends.
Pixar's emphasis on character and story made (and could make again) worlds that we fell in love with. Monsters University – a fun, disposable watch – has taken one of these worlds and repeated it to formula. It leaves the studio looking nostalgic.
It’s a pleasure to be back in such a fun alternate world and, by throwing every joke possible at the screen, this is not only one of the studio’s funniest films, it’s also one of the best comedies of the year.
There are a few nice moments along the way, but minor characters lack solidity, and the structure of the story is as vague as its message.
While it is a little predictable in places, the strength of this film lies in its ability to surprise the audience and craft a tale of friendship that is suitable for children and adults alike.
It’s not going to trouble the animated studio’s upper echelons, but it’s a solid and likeable return to a much-loved monster-‘verse that, in some cases, manages to improve on the original.
In short, as summer entertainment it makes the grade. Yet as a Pixar movie, it could try harder. Still, the customary short supporting feature, about brollies fighting the elements and finding love, is well worth the effort of arriving early.
It is funny. But the longed-for return to Pixar greatness seems as far away as ever.
Maybe it’s Pixar’s acknowledgement of its own limits: great artists realising they can’t be the greatest forever.
Could do better.
Dazzlingly clever and hugely funny, it succeeds both as a broadening of the Monsters universe and as a film in its own right. Monsters University had a tough task, and it’s passed with honours.
Crystal and Goodman, both now in their 60s, deliver bravado vocal performances, reprising their earlier roles, but injecting them with a surprising amount of youthful vigour and callow indignation.
It has plenty of charm and good humour and, crucially, it doesn’t “Sulley” memories of the much loved original.
There's a rather tired, willed atmosphere hanging over it.
Monsters University: Back to school with Pixar
Making of the Monsters University scream team
Pixar animator Scott Clark on Monsters University
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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