REVIEW: MONSTERS UNIVERSITY

It is my first movie review for an animation film. I have had a soft spot for animated feature films for the longest time. Back from the Disney animated films in the 1990s until now, I have always tried to catch an animated film in cinemas. I like animation because it gives the director and production team creativity to do shots that cannot be achieved using a regular film camera. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the press screening of Monsters University, the sequel of the blockbuster animation hit Monsters, Inc. thanks to KLIPS Malaysia.

It took quite sometime for Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Pictures to come up with a sequel to Monsters, Inc. which was released in 2001. For those not familiar with the Monsters, Inc. , the characters in the film are based on the concept of the supposedly 'creatures' which go bump in the night. This time around, Monsters University is not a sequel but a PREQUEL which chronicles the journey leading up to Monsters, Inc. film.

Monsters University reunites the voice talents of Billy Crystal and John Goodman as the two main leads. Also reprising their roles are actors Steve Buscemi and Frank Oz. Joining Monsters University are fellow actors Sean Hayes, Helen Mirren, and Alfred Molina. Dan Scanlon makes his animated feature film debut taking over the helm from Pete Docter.

SYNOPSIS:
Young Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal) aspires to become a 'scarer' in the prestigious Monsters, Inc. company. For him to do so, he must first attend Monsters University and graduate with flying colours. Once enrolled in the university, he befriends James 'Sulley' Sullivan (voiced by John Goodman). Together, they have to face heavy scrutiny under the watchful eye of academic teachers and overcome college bullies at the same time.

Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal)

James Sullivan (voiced by John Goodman)

SCRIPT:
The script is pretty straight forward for it is directed at kids. However, I do prefer Monsters, Inc. which was more stronger. I do like how the script is not only suitable for kids but also adults.

ACTING:
Voice acting is difficult to critic. Each actor brought their own unique trademark to their respective roles. However, having a star-studded cast as mentioned above is worth the ticket

An aspiring young Mike Wazowski

FILMING:
Pixar Studios is known to have energetic shots but was lacking somehow in this film. Could have been better by putting the camera at certain unique angles. When I say camera, I mean designing the shot. The new characters are well drawn and the choices of colours are wonderful.

PACING:
Moderate and fun. Builds well towards the end. Good insertions of humour here and there. There's one unnecessary subplot involving a villain which made it a little slow.

TONE (MOOD):
Fun and laughter for both adults and kids. Family oriented.

DOWNSIDE:
To understand Monsters University, you have to watch the first one, Monsters, Inc. (2001).

UPSIDE:
New characters and an interesting ending.

OVERALL:
Straight up family fun and best watch in 3D

RATING:
7.5 out of 10