For me, Ratatouille seemed like it would be something of a tough sell. As much as I’ve enjoyed previous Pixar efforts (I even get a bit misty over Monsters Inc.), the sheer volume of computer animated fuzzy-critter flicks over the past few years has made me weary of them. And call me coldhearted, but the whole idea of a rat becoming a chef put me off.
But while Ratatouille occasionally has its Willard moments, it’s rarely anything but charming, a great-looking film that avoids the temptation of getting cloying with its messages about savoring the good things in life and following one’s dreams. There are fine vocal performances from the entire cast, and their acting is in turn complemented by Pixar’s ever more astounding animation. (Particularly enjoyable is Anton Ego, a joyless food critic voiced by Peter O’ Toole who stands with a buzzard-like Max Schreck stoop.) The expressive faces of the characters bear neither the creepy stiffness of lesser computer animated efforts, nor the bland prettiness once favored by Disney. To top it all off, that first glittering rooftop view of Paris has all the breathtaking effect of the best cinematic evocations of the City of Lights.
by Victoria Large | Source: Disney DVD
29 Nov 2007 3:25 PM | Submit Comment
