Monsters University Review

The latest Pixar flick was the prequel to 2001's Monsters, Inc. I think it should be said that Monsters, Inc. is my personal favorite Pixar film ever (yes, even above Toy Story). So, continuing with the summer movies I saw, this is my review of Monsters University, which pits our favorite monsters deep inside college.

In Monsters, Inc., I loved the characters, I loved the relationship between Boo and Sully, and I just thought all the different types of monsters were really cool. So, obviously, I was highly anticipating Monsters University. While I didn't expect it to be as good as my favorite animated movie of all-time, I was hoping it was one of the better ones. Was it, though? Eh. It was certainly enjoyable, and served up plenty of nostalgia for Monsters, Inc. fans like me. But, it never quite got on the level of Pixar's finest movies.

The main voice cast from the original is back. John Goodman, Billy Crystal, and Steve Buscemi all reprise their roles. There are also some newcomers to the franchise. Helen Mirren joins the cast as the dean of Monsters University, along with Joel Murray, Sean Hayes, and Dave Foley among others. They do a nice job. It's great to hear Goodman and Crystal as Sully and Mike once again. They are perfect for the roles.

The story is interesting enough. Basically, it's about how Sully and Mike first met, and their first experiences together. It was cool when there were subtle references to the original seamed throughout the script. I thought it was nice that they were keeping the canon in mind, while not overwhelming us with endless references. Nice job by the writers on that front.

There is also plenty of humor to go around. That's one Pixar tradition this movie keeps up with: it is funny. That's all that can be said. I found myself laughing throughout the film.

All that being said, I just didn't feel the same magic that most of Pixar's other movies provide. Any Pixar fan knows what I mean. Throughout the years with all their animated films, Pixar has kept a special sense of enchantment in their stories. Whether we're talking about the Toy Story flicks, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, or Ratatouille, I always feel a warmth after I watch them. I didn't feel that same spark with Monsters University.

Conclusion 

Monsters University is a funny, entertaining addition to Pixar's legacy. While it doesn't reach the heights of their best films, it provides enough enjoyable moments to satisfy. 

Rating: 7.5/10 

Age suggestion: All ages suitable