Direction: Brian Fee, Ben Queen, Eyal Podeli Cast: Owen Wilson, Cristela Alonzo, Arnie Hammer, Chris Cooper, Larry, the
Cable Guy Screenplay: Kiel Murray, Bob Peterson Cinematography: Jeremy Lasky, Kim White Editing: Jason Hudak Music: Randy Newman Producers: Kevin Reher Genre: Animation Location: USA Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Running time: 123 minutes
Technical assessment: 3
Moral
assessment: 3
CINEMA
rating: V14
MTRCB
rating: PG13
Lightning McQueen (Wilson) has been the greatest
racer seven times in a row until technology catches up and gives birth to a new breed of boosted racers. McQueen suffers a
violent crash while trying to beat Jackson Storm (Hammer), an arrogant rookie. Determined not to end up
like Doc Hudson, McQueen decides to train again. He is assigned by his new
owner Sterling to train with Cruz Ramirez (Alonzo). In the beginning McQueen and Ramirez do not get
along and disagree with each other’s methods. But as the two are forced to work together to save McQueen’s career, they
discover each other’s real self and end up as good friends. In the final race,
McQueen uses technique rather than speed to beat Storm and
allows Ramirez to fulfill her longtime dream to become a professional racer.
Cars 3 boasts of the same visual expertise Disney and Pixar are noted
for. The design and artistry are so meticulously detailed that watching the films is like watching a live action scene. The voice
performers deliver well. You could almost see the faces of the people in the
animation with their honest interpretation of the characters. The story,
although not necessarily novel, is relatable and the sensible development for
the 3rd franchise. The storytelling sometimes falls into the temptation
of self-indulgence and vanity but with the visual feast it delivers, audience
will not always mind.
The most prominent messages Cars 3 delivers are mentorship and
self-confidence to pursue one’s dream. The movie talks about the elders and
more accomplished as mentors and guide to the young and inexperienced. In turn,
the students are taught not solely for their personal gain but to pass on the wisdom and skills to the next generation. This becomes a
positive reinforcing cycle which ensures a productive and selfless society. And
with positive and ethical mentorship, the student not only learns skills but
learns to appreciate one’s self. The self-image is built and confidence is
strengthened. Women, underdogs, less privileged, seniors and physically
challenged begin to see opportunities and pursue their dreams without fear.
This is a family movie with very positive messages better appreciated if
parents discuss with their children.
