Genre: Animation | Action | Comedy
Directed by: Don Hall, Chris Williams
Starring: Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Jamie Chung
Written by: Don Hall (story), Jordan Roberts (story
Big Hero 6 is the first animated superhero film to come from Pixar since The Incredibles and in my opinion, Big Hero 6 is now Pixar’s top superhero film.
As the film opens we are introduced to aesthetically pleasing visuals which encapsulate the film from start to finish. In usual Pixar fashion, the setting is vibrantly colorful and the characters are expressively lifelike. From an animation standpoint, Big Hero 6 proves that Pixar is on a progressive path towards technological advancement. Their films continue to flourish visually and Big Hero 6 is a testament of their visual artistry.
While the visuals were stunning, a film’s substance comes from its plot and character development. Big Hero 6 follows a typical plot for a superhero type film. The internal conflict of a talented young boy teeters to the side of righteousness after a traumatic moment gives him reason to use his talents. In the name of justice and righteousness he bands together a group of unlikely heroes against a powerful villainous force. For those looking for suspense and bewilderment, you may not find it in Big Hero 6’s stereotypical superhero story. What you will find is a universally enjoyable film that can appeal to a variety of audiences and families. While not incredibly original, the plot is a proven formula for entertainment and Big Hero 6 executes that formula well.
Stunning Visuals
The characters that make up the superhero team known as “Big Hero 6” are intriguing as they relate to the plot. Their collaboration is authentic as they all share the same motive with their leader Hiro (being the most passionate in regards to that motive). Their attributes as heroes are all unique but the source of their powers is what is most unique. Every character gains their powers through means of invention and this fits with the underlying theme. Big Hero 6 pushes the idea that intelligence is a super power and reinforces it through the characters’ inventions and the push for Hiro to attend college. On top of the film’s entertainment value, this sends a great message to young and impressionable viewers who idolize superheroes.
Positively impressionable for young viewers
In addition to their unique powers, each character has their own unique personality that many movie-goers can relate to. Hiro is the character that is the driving force and the most dynamic. We see him grow from an isolationist to a collaborative team player which is an emotional ride. Throughout that process his attachment to the robot Baymax is what helps him to grow as they together make up the primary hero of the film. The other characters all share supportive characteristics that help Hiro’s development throughout the film. Go Go is a strong willed woman who instills determination and confidence. Honey Lemon is the opposite of Go Go having an upbeat and bubbly personality. Wasabi is a more hindered individual that is reluctant in his own abilities. Fred is the opposite of Wasabi being overly confident and provides the comic relief for the film. Together, all of the characters fall into a wide spectrum of personalities that further the development of Big Hero 6’s main character Hiro.
Overall I would say that Big Hero 6 is a justifiable venture for movie goers of all ages. It relies on a formulaic plot that we’ve seen many times but that plot is executed very well. Outside of the plot and usual cinematics, the visuals are amazing. If you are a fan of superhero films, animated films, or all of the above, then Big Hero 6 is a must see for you.
Big Hero 6 – 7.5 out of 10
Big Hero 6 is now Pixar’s top superhero film.
