THE INCREDIBLES

(2004)
They look fairly credible to meWith the voices of Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Jason Lee, Samuel L. Jackson, Brad Bird, Sarah Vowell, Spencer Fox
Directed by Brad Bird
Style: Computer-generated
Reviewed by JL

     THE INCREDIBLES is perhaps the best computer-animated blockbuster to come along since Disney/Pixar's TOY STORY (1995) portended the downfall of traditional hand-drawn animation.  In addition to its rousing super-hero action and sharp comedy, THE INCREDIBLES also finds time for some incisive social commentary, suggesting that we are all victims of the vapid political correctness that has usurped basic right-and-wrong morality in today's world.  The animation is dazzling (a given in a Pixar film) and the voice work is outstanding, especially the performances of Craig T. Nelson and Holly Hunter.  The film is also something of a rarity in these times, a personal work by writer-director Brad Bird, who was afforded the freedom to make the film he wanted without corporate or committee input.  Not just a great animated film, THE INCREDIBLES is one of the best films, period, of the young century (which may not be saying much, but that doesn't diminish its worth).  4½ - JL

Mr. Incredible's sudden realization: CGI chicks are hot     Super Heroes are people too. Fifteen years after their heyday as crime fighters, the Parr family has been relocated to suburbia.  Bob, aka Mr Incredible, is bored with his job at an insurance company and has let himself get fat.  Helen, aka Elastigirl, has traded her sexy super hero tights for a drab blouse and black house slacks. Meanwhile, their daughter Violet, who can turn invisible, thinks she is a freak while son Dash uses his incredible speed to play pranks on his teacher.  Their friend Lucius, aka Frozone, enjoys telling stories of the good old days as well as bowling on Wednesday nights.  The collective need of these former heroes to break out of their humdrum lives and simply be their incredible self helps make THE INCREDIBLES both an excellent and insightful animated film as well as a superior example of the super hero genre.  Brad Bird's script takes swipes at some of the more insane and destructive tendencies of American society (endless litigation, politically correct educational standards) while fashioning an action-packed James Bond-style adventure.  One of Pixar's most mature features to date, yet still a good time for the whole family. 4½ - JB 

Pixar     The Secret Vortex

IN SPACE, NO ONE CAN HEAR GOOD MOVIE QUOTES

"No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again. Sometimes I just want it to stay saved! You know, for a little bit? I feel like the maid; I just cleaned up this mess! Can we keep it clean for... for ten minutes!"