The Task: Watch and write about every movie on my shelf, in order (Blu-rays are sorted after DVDs), by June 10, 2015. Remaining movies: 194 Days to go: 199
Movie #183: Monsters, Inc.
I would watch a musical about the events in Monsters, Inc., which makes me really glad they put a production of it (“Put that thing back where it came from, or so help me! So help me!”) post-credits. Such a clever little addition.
Pixar movies are full of little payoffs like that, from “outtakes” to inside jokes. It’s one of the elements that makes them such a high quality production. Monsters, Inc. is no exception. In my opinion, it’s definitely one of the best of all the Pixar properties.
Based on the long-held fears of children everywhere that there are monsters in their closets, Monsters, Inc. says yep, there are. And those monsters live in their own world that needs the screams of children to power it. The power company employs “scarers” to enter the closets through portal doors, collect screams, and be gone without touching any toxic children. Their best scarer is James P. Sullivan, AKA Sully (John Goodman) and his coach/assistant/best friend Mike Wazowski (Billy Crystal). The duo is on track to break the all-time scare record, despite rival Randall (Steve Buscemi) being hot on their tails, when Sully happens upon Randall working after hours and a little human girl (who Sully dubs Boo, voiced by Mary Gibbs) makes her way into the monster world.
The film offers a new twist and unique perspective on an idea that’s been around for ages, and it makes the monsters fun, lovable and relatable — giving them a wide swatch of personalities and characteristics. And despite being an animated character, Boo is just about the cutest little girl ever. In fact, if I ever have cause to say Mike Wazowski, I have to say it the way Boo does. (Her “kitty” is also fun.)
The nefarious plan behind Randall’s scheming is even worse than anticipated, but the solution turns out to be a hundred times better. (The comedy routine has even been turned into a pretty great attraction at Disney World.) The conspiracy is long-reaching and the chase is both thrilling and funny, but the overall film is about the friendship of Mike and Sully and how it is challenged by their different priorities but emerges stronger because of their mutual love and respect.
There’s some great supporting voice work in the movie, from James Coburn as Mr. Waternoose, Pixar favorite John Ratzenberger as the Abominable Snowman (fabulous reference) and human squeak toy Jennifer Tilly as Celia. But Mike and Sully are definitely the best things about the film, with Crystal and Goodman infusing the characters with real heart and frustrations and passions. Their chemistry is electric and their friendship is strong and authentic. And I particularly love, despite his seeming aggressive personality, how loving and optimistic Mike is. He’s super affectionate with Celia and never upset when his picture is obscured on magazines or TV. He’s so happy to be part of something, he never gets down by things that others would be bummed about. I love him.
Now if I could only get this paperwork filled out.
Viable Option 