A new movie that shows what would happen if the meteor that struck earth instead missed its target
It has become a tradition for Pixar to always find a way to make a film that is revolutionary and one that every age group can enjoy. They did it with Toy Story and its subsequent sequels, The Incredibles and Wall-E as well as many other wonderful movies. Even though not all of Pixar’s movies have been great they are usually a film that the whole family can enjoy. This writer got to see The Good Dinosaur and here is what he thought of it.
The film starts with a huge cosmic event that many people who know ancient history are familiar with. A meteor heads to Earth one night millions of years ago but instead of hitting the planet it misses and keeps on going in outer space. Since the dinosaurs were not destroyed they instead thrive and become the dominant species on the planet. This is where the movie begins and truly develops from here.
Arlo (Raymond Ochoa) is walking with his dad Henry (Jeffrey Wright) one day when a giant storm heads their way. It is the worst storm Arlo has ever seen and sadly from it a terrible tragedy happens. Arlo realizes he is a coward and is unsure how to overcome his crippling fear of most things around him. He is a small dinosaur and has little idea why he was born this way or what he should do with his life. A short while later Arlo falls in the river and gets separated from his family. He has no idea where he is or how to get home. He meets a strange little cave boy he names Spot (Jack Bright) and they build an unlikely friendship. Arlo wants nothing more than to find his way back home and he thinks Spot may be able to help him find it again. On this journey Arlo and Spot will run into some dangerous creatures and make some lasting friendships and there may be a few strong life lessons thrown in there too. Where did Arlo wash up from the river? How will he get back home? And will he be able to face the fears that have plagued him for so much of his life?
The film has a wonderful cast of voice actors that really bring all of these characters to life. There is a family that viewers get to meet about half way into the movie that are a joy to witness. The scenes they are in are hilarious and uplifting but there is a serious tone to the eldest one that will get the gears in your brain turning. The scenes they are in take the movie in a very clever direction and although it may seem out of place there is a a few good reasons why it is there. This writer enjoyed every minute they were on screen and personally wished it didn’t have to end. The musical score is perfect and helps add the touch to so many scenes that make them something to cherish and behold. But the best thing about this movie is the special effects. There are a few scenes that are a piece of art and are sure to entice all of your senses.
This movie gets 7/10. It is not a terrible movie but it is not the best Pixar movie. There are some elements that have been used in some past movies that long term Disney fans will find familiar. The movie also does drag on in a few scenes and this was a disappoint to watch. But overall it is a movie that kids are sure to enjoy.
If you are a fan of Disney this is a movie you will want to see. If you are looking for a good movie to see with your family this is the picture to pick. The Good Dinosaur comes out this Friday.
Watch the heart warming trailer here: