Cars 3 (3D) is a Hollywood 3D Computer- Animated Sports Adventure Comedy-Drama movie
directed by Brian Fee.
Starring Owen Wilson,Cristela Alonzo,Armie Hammer,Larry the Cable Guy,Bonnie Hunt,Cheech Marin,Michael Wallis,Paul Dooley.
'Cars 3': A delightful
coming-of-age film (IANS Review By Troy Ribeiro , Rating: ***1/2)
This third edition of the franchise, from Pixar, which first appeared
in 2006 is comparatively better than its predecessor released in 2011.
While the scope and spectacle of "Cars 2" made it feel impersonal and
hollow, "Cars 3" is a considerably more focused affair.
The film returns with its hotshot hero, Owen Wilson's Lightning
McQueen, who is now ageing. In the last race of the season, frazzled by
a cocky pack of young racers, led by a jet-black, pompous car named
Jackson Storm voiced by Armie Hammer. Lightning drives recklessly
resulting in a devastating crash. Now, with his racing future in
question, he vows to make a comeback. His struggle to stay competitive
on the racetrack, forms the crux of the tale.
Co-written by Director Brian Fee, the film does not deliver anything
that feels fresh, revitalizing or progressive either in its story or
its presentation.
Nevertheless, despite its lack of innovative concept and ideas, it is
actually quite enjoyable, a sturdy coming-of-age story that culminates
in an unexpectedly poignant, exhilarating final race to the finish line.
What works for the film is that the tale is relatable, down-to-earth
story of empathy and acceptance that actually drives home some complex
messages and motivational talks through its layered plot. The
mentorship subplot tackles the race/gender oppression and other
real-world issues of privilege and discrimination, in a subtle way.
The ace actors, who have lent their voices deserve a lot of credit for
making this largely formulaic story feel engaging and alive, from
moment to moment. Lightning's listless and lost attitude is perfectly
counterbalanced by Cristela Alonzo who voices Cruz Ramirez - his
trainer cum mentee. There is a certain bounce in her tone revealing
optimism and energy, that makes the drab portion pulsate.
Visually the film isn't quite impressive. The placid American setting
is scenic no doubt, but it mirrors the gloomy tone of the story so
closely that the various brown and grey locales, during the mid-section
of the narrative, come across as a bit too drab. However, there are
several standout moments of visual flair, like Lightning literally and
symbolically shedding his skin to reveal his true self, a training
montage on a beach that boasts of so many feats and a thrilling
demolition race, in the film's otherwise sleepy mid-section. The climax
too has an astounding action sequence that makes you cheer aloud.
Overall, "Cars 3" isn't outstanding or revolutionary or even for that
matter, striking. But it is nevertheless a delightful film.
Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning
McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves.
To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician,
Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous
Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through
yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!