Rating of
2/4
The 'Okay' Dinosaur
Unknown - wrote on 12/10/15
'The Good Dinosaur' is another slight disappointment from Pixar. I didn't enjoy this film near as much as I have with the majority of their other works. This isn't as dull and dumb as the 'Cars' series, nor is it similar to the disappointing bait-and-switch that was 'Brave'. It's more in line with the mediocrity that was 'Monster's University'. 'Good Dinosaur's story is entirely made up of done-to-death tropes I've seen in countless other Disney (and non-Disney) animated films. You have a meek child character who loses a parent(s) then goes on a journey to find their self worth. They meet odd characters along the way. Some interesting, and some annoying. The problem is that none of what I just stated is presented in a new light whatsoever. It's all so damn predictable to the point where I could not get emotionally invested. Some aspects were still worthwhile. The animation is some of the best ever seen from Pixar. The landscapes are sometimes breathtakingly gorgeous. I also loved the ferrel human boy named Spot. The scenes that only involve him and Arlo are the definite highlight. They use much less dialogue and convey genuine sympathy, companionship, and heart. Two specific scenes were actually perfect in the way they were thematically connected. They showcased everything that makes Pixar constantly terrific. I only wish that the entire movie could've encompassed what those individual moments were all about. More work on character and story was needed to make this something truly special.
