First Take Classics: The Incredibles- ‘no capes’ is a way of life

SYNOPSIS:

A family of undercover superheroes, while trying to live the quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world.

14 years ago, Pixar were arguably at the height of their game, delivering consistent hits including Toy Story, A Bug’s Life, Monsters Inc, and some outstanding short films. Back then, Brad Bird’s superhero caper was a bold move, but with a whole generation, this one is arguably one of their stronger works.

Bird’s direction and script are able to blend together in a way rarely seen in today’s films, he knows exactly what he’s doing for the entire 1 hour 55 minute running time, pacing it faultlessly and blending the best of the 1960s spy genre and the animation Pixar have continued to innovate since the days of Luxo (that infamous lamp). Michael Giacchino provides a score that even now is blaring in the corridors of the cinema where I will be seeing the sequel in a matter of hours.

Performance wise, well, what can I say. Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter and Samuel L Jackson (before he donned the eye mask for Marvel’s films) are very likable leads, and with a solid villain in the form of Jason Lee’s Syndrome, this cast are able to work with director Bird (who voices the uniquely memorable Edna Mode- seriously, he knew exactly how to make this film work) to create some real magic for parents, children, and us die-hard Pixar fans. 

THE VERDICT

I can totally understand why audiences have been clamouring for a sequel, as The Incredibles is just right there in the upper echelons of big screen entertainment. Of course us Brits have to go out in the football before Incredibles 2 releases, but still, 14 years on, this film is perfect.

RATING: 5/5