Movie Review - Toy Story III

Pixar's track record is near perfect, and judging from early reviews, I assumed this movie would follow tradition. As expected, Toy Story III delivered the goods on every level.

Andy's leaving soon for college - what will happen to his toys? What does happen is another adventure as the toys embark on a journey of friendship and loyalty.

The animation is stunning. (Dare we expect anything less?) The 3D effects enhance the film, blending perfectly with Pixar's detailed animation. However, I suspect those watching in 2D lost none of the overall experience due to the quality of Pixar's work.

Outstanding scenes to watch for include the opening train sequence, Buzz in a funny re-boot sequence, and the final daycare scenario. There are some dire moments toward the end, and the ending itself is sad and touching. It will cause most adult members of the audience to recall their favorite childhood toys.

Toy Story III is sentimental and will tug at your heartstrings. This one is for all ages. Go and enjoy!

Movie Review - How to Train Your Dragon

How to Train Your Dragon - without a doubt the best movie I have seen this year!

First I have to say that Dreamworks outdid themselves with the animation. Every object had such incredible texture, and you could even see the hairs on the arms of the Vikings. The flying sequences were breathtaking but not nauseating, and the scenery vivid and detailed.

Not that I've praised the animation, let me get to the story. The movie opens with a dragon raid on a Viking village. The whole village aspires to be dragon killers, believing every dragon should be killed on sight. And then one day the village leader's son befriends the most dangerous dragon of all...

Despite the angle taken by the trailers, this is not a silly film. It's more of an adventure than a comedy, and a little somber in parts. How to Train Your Dragon is a coming of age film - a young man's quest to find his place in life.

The dragons (and there many breeds) each possess their own personality. While the dragons are fierce, they are more like dogs than anything else. Wild dogs I might add - it takes the young hero, Hiccup, quite a while to earn the dragon's trust.

The feel of this movie will resonate with you for a very long time. I highly recommend you catch this film in 3D - especially before this Friday's release of Clash of the Titans forces it out of the 3D theaters...