Pixar Animation Studios have been at the leading edge of bringing stories to life with their recognizable, pleasing aesthetic for decades. The studio’s ability to bring loveable characters to life and communicate with audiences continues to be a winner for Pixar’s feature films. We all know their movies aren’t just for the kids though, right? A large part of the appeal is the studio’s talent for infusing adult humor into their storylines. Here, we look at the writer’s best picks. There may be minor spoilers depending on viewer experience.
Toy Story
The much-loved first release for Pixar was a huge hit, and rightly so. The release of Toy Story had a delightful storyline and is the studio’s earliest digital animated full-length movie. The plot focuses on six-year-old Andy’s favorite toy, Sheriff Woody, given to Andy by his beloved late father. Having the luxury of accompanying Andy on his many adventures and sleeping on his bed, Woody is extremely comfortable being Andy’s favorite. That is, until Buzz Lightyear, the shiny new action figure, is received by Andy for his birthday. The important concept of growing up yet not growing out of one’s friends is skilfully introduced to children in this classic.
A significant contributing factor to the success of Toy Story is that it proves magic does happen. Andy owns many classic toys most of us did growing up. Loveable characters such as Mr Potato Head, Hamm the Piggy Bank and Etch A Sketch provide viewers with nostalgia, allowing them to connect to the story. Oh, and the fact they come to life? What a genius move by Pixar to catapult a successful franchise for the years that followed. Re-released in 2009 in 3-D, Toy Story is a must-see for any Pixar fans, as are the other four films in this most popular franchise.
Finding Nemo
Most of us as children (and let’s admit – as adults!) have been lost before, and Finding Nemo beautifully delves into this treacherous scenario. Young clownfish Nemo gets lost in the Great Barrier Reef due to resisting his father and widow Marlin’s overbearing yet loving authority. The audience gets to tag along on Nemo’s precarious adventure and Marlin’s quest as he searches for his son. Separate for the first time, the duo are pushed outside their comfort zones while each meeting many wonderful characters along the way. One of the most notable is Dory, who often steals the scene from her fish friends.
Themes including family and loss are sensitively examined as Nemo and Marlin navigate their journeys. Just as in life, grief can be a lonely voyage sometimes. This is highlighted as the duo each experience healing in their own ways. Nemo has been applauded for providing a learning introduction to some of life’s big lessons. There’s everything to love in this movie for viewers, both big and small. Luckily, the fun doesn’t end there with the release of its anticipated sequel, Finding Dory, which is every bit as enjoyable to watch as the original.
Cars
Bringing innate objects to life is no mean feat, and Pixar does not disappoint with the release of this animated classic. Cars brought a new dynamic to Pixar’s repertoire with an exciting motor speedway focus. Lightning McQueen, a boastful rookie race car, prepares to compete in the revered Piston Cup championship. When unexpectedly becoming destitute in a long deserted town called Radiator Springs somewhere along Route 66, Lightning McQueen has to face some real life-changing challenges.
This tale provides quirky comedic dynamics between the main protagonists. The characters are all well-developed, and the dialogue is amusing yet purposeful. Larrikin tow truck Mater provides much of the entertainment in the scenes in which he appears and is a favorite of many fans. Ultimately, Cars is a story about pushing the boundaries and challenging misconceptions about others. It reminds us of the importance of humility and that friends are often found in the most unlikely of places. Though the film doesn’t quite have the same emotional pull as its predecessors, Cars must still be recognized for its storytelling prowess.
Up
The emotional narrative in Up commences the second the story opens with a heart-touching montage of Carl and Ellie’s many years of marriage. Following Ellie’s passing and struggling with loneliness, Carl finds himself pressured to move into a care facility. Instead of conforming, Carl rebels and sets off on a journey to fulfil one of Ellie’s lifelong wishes. Carl’s undying loyalty displayed in the film is touching. Unbeknownst to Carl, he has a stowaway, adding an unexpected element to his adventure.
Like all of Up’s forerunners, the animations burst through the screen. The virtual tactile display throughout the film, such as the foliage in the South American landscape, is vivid. Similar to previous Pixar releases, Up inherently examines the grief process and the difficulty some people face when trying to move on. The story subtly explains how moving forward does not have to mean letting go of the past. A word of warning before watching Up, however. This movie has made a tear-jerker out of even the most hardened audiences. So pair some tissues with the popcorn, and you’re good to go!
Coco
There is just so much to love about this vibrant addition to Pixar’s repertoire. Twelve-year-old Miguel must contain his musical talent due to a long-observed family rule that bans music. However, Miguel’s passion far outweighs tradition and he pursues music in any way possible. Of course, he does this secretly . The music central to this film is perfectly curated to get the emotions going and the toes tapping. Simultaneously and quite cleverly, the audience becomes vested in this touching tale of devotion and determination.
When Miguel suspects his all-time musical idol may be a relative long-passed, he sets off on an expedition to discover his true family roots. The Day of the Dead tradition is respectfully explored and integrated into the storyline. Culture and honor play at the forefront of much of the beautiful dialogue between characters in the scriptwriting. The learning curve of Miguel’s adventure adds further substance, completing the tale so satisfyingly. This memorable story deserves the viewing pleasure of anyone looking for inspiration to stay true to themselves and chase their dreams.
For More Great Content
Total Apex is an all-encompassing content producer. We provide detailed articles every day on entertainment, gaming, sports, and so much more! Check out all our great sports content at Total Apex Sports. Check us out on X @TotalApexEandG and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports.
