Typically sequels to fan favorites are met with mixed feelings. Pixar is definitely familar with this, having revisited several of its properties like Toy Story, Cars, Finding Nemo and Monsters Inc. The latest addition to this group of movies is Cars 3. While Cars 2 was met with mixed reviews, Cars 3 speeds into 1st place. It is perhaps even better than the original.
In Cars 3, “Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voiced by Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!”
** MINOR SPOLERS AHEAD **
3D or Not 3D
Do yourself a favor and spend the extra money to see Cars 3 in 3D. The advanced screening we saw was in 3D and it added so much to the movie. Rather than gimmicks where things pop out at you, the effects made the movie more immersive. I rarely prefer 3D to 2D, but this definitely creates a fantastic cinematic experience.
The Movie
Following in the footsteps of Toy Story, Cars 3 set itself up to be an emotional chapter to the Cars series. Boy did it deliver! From the start you can feel the emotions in this movie. Unlike the last two movies which were more fun and light hearted, Cars 3 really draws you in by tugging on your heartstrings. Sure there are fun scenes but the overall tone of the film feels a bit more grown up. It really feels like everyone will take something different from the story being told. From not fitting in to overcoming self-doubt to aging, there are definitely a lot of themes going on. However, the movie does a great job of tying them all together into a wonderful and cohesive story.
The Ladies of Cars 3
One of the biggest and most welcome changes, in my opinion, to Cars 3 from the other Cars films is the inclusion of more female characters. While the original had Sally and Flo, both felt very overshadowed by the predominantly male characters. In Cars 3, Sally and Flo return but also welcome Cruz Ramirez, Natalie Certain (voiced by Kerri Washington), Miss Fritter (voiced by Lea DeLaria), and Louise Nash (voiced by Margo Martindale). It was great seeing strong female characters holding their own versus just helping the main cast. Not only will boys and girls alike identify with Cruz Ramirez, but Miss Fritter and Louise Nash are sure to become favorites as well!
Easter Eggs
All of the Easter Eggs you’d expect to find in a Pixar movie are present! A113? Check. Pizza Planet Truck? Check. Luxo Ball? Check. However, my favorite Easter Egg is a reference to the animated short In the Bag. I won’t spoil the moment but you definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for it.
Overall, Cars 3 is a fantastic movie. As I mentioned earlier, I think it is definitely the best of the three movies. Everyone will have their own experience with it and I really feel that it can appeal to a wide audience. I hope that in the future if they continue to carry on with more Cars movies or shorts we see more of Cruz Ramirez, Miss Fritter, and Louise Nash! Have you seen Cars 3? Leave your comments below and let us know what you thought!
