Incredibles 2 (2018)

The superhero politics thread feels a little tired and uninteresting, and the other main catch-the-villain plot is nothing special either (though Screenslaver’s monologue about heroes and the people is a standout moment for both). Fortunately, the characters and humour are fabulous (awkward Violet is a delight–see her embarrassing mishap at the restaurant; the remarkable Jack-Jack is a riot–see his raccoon fight, inter-dimensional travel) and the animated action is excellent and thrilling.

7

The Incredibles (2004)

A family of undercover superheroes, while trying to live the quiet suburban life, are forced into action to save the world. (IMDb)

The bad: for some reason the exaggerated animated bodies rubbed me the wrong way this time around (see Mirage’s literal stick figure), and the return to superhero-ism seemed much too smooth and welcome given the fall-out to open the film. The good: pretty much everything else; the comedy’s solid (efficient Edna’s a hoot) and the action is top-notch, with the central family under study giving it a strong emotional element (the helicopter flight with Mom and kids is the best scene of the film).

7.5/10 (Really Good)

 

Blades of Glory (2007)

In 2002, two rival Olympic ice skaters were stripped of their gold medals and permanently banned from men’s single competition. Presently, however, they’ve found a loophole that will allow them to qualify as a pairs team. (IMDb)

Ferrell’s outlandish Chazz is the highlight here, with exaggerated rougeish charm (“Personal philosophy? Clothing optional”) and outrageous quirks (“I could not love a human baby more than I love this brush”), and his development from “lone wolf” to true friend is just as believable (even touching–see his night of temptation, final speech) as it is marked by humour. The supporting cast doesn’t add much, unfortunately, and neither does the rushed sports-plot (magnificent final performance aside).

6.5/10 (Alright)