240. Monsters Inc.

Monsters, Inc. (2001)

Director: Pete Docter

Starring: John Goodman

Billy Crystal

Steve Buscemi

IMDb Rating: 7.9

My Rating: 8.5

"Mike Waszowski!"

Mike (voiced by Billy Crystal) and Sully (voiced by John Goodman) are the best team at Monsters Incorporated, the company that supplies power to all of Monstropolis. The power is generated from the screams of children, and when it comes to scaring, there is no monster better than Sully. He holds the scream record at Monsters Incorporated, a record that is desperately wanted by the sinister Randall (voiced by Steve Buscemi). One night while Randall is trying to cheat and get a few more scares under his belt, Sully accidentally lets a small girl named Boo into the world of Monstropolis. The entire city goes into panic when she is discovered, and is immediately deemed a national threat. Thus begins Mike and Sully's hilarious, and ultimately touching, journey to get Boo back to her world.

Monsters, Inc. might seem like a simple animated film to some, but it actually has some pretty important messages. The most obvious message is to not fear or judge someone, just because they appear to be different. All of Monstropolis goes into an uproar when Boo arrives. Their fears reside because the preconceived notions and stereotypes of past generations. There is also a subtle message in support of alternative energy sources, when monsters discover that children's screams are not the best source of power. These are great messages for current and future generations a like.

On the surface though, this film has a lot of laughs and a lot of heart. I really love the relationship between Sully and Boo. The automatic bond between the two is really what holds this film together. From their hilarious first meeting, to their final scenes together, everything works just right. My all-time favorite ending to animated film is found in the final moment of the film. Sometimes a simple moment will accomplish more than a well written speech. This is indeed one of those times.

Up until 2008, Monsters, Inc. was without a doubt my favorite Pixar film. Pixar Studios delivers a product that is fun for all ages. It's heart-warming story not only entertains, but leaves a deep impression long after the credits have rolled. It's visually gorgeous to watch as well. If you haven't seen this film, you owe it to yourself to take the time and do so. Monsters, Inc. comes very highly recommended.