Analysis
Monsters Inc. is another animated film to come from the reliable stables of Pixar/Dinsney Productions. Their collaboration has yet to spawn a flop and high hopes were the order of the day as I sat in a theater crowded with kids. The film quickly gathers pace unveiling a wonderfully, mystical yarn about a strange world full of monsters and how they need children's screams to power their city. Sulley and Mike are the central characters and are voiced by John Goodman and Billy Crystal respectfully. The actors do a great job at portraying the two monsters and you can almost feel the partnership that they portray through out the film. It's not so much a case as dogs looking like their owners, but if you check out the two actors against the monsters they play, you will have a pretty good idea of what I mean. The other creatures in the film are very imaginative including characters like Celia, a worm like creature with snakes for hair and Randall who can camouflage against any background and is as evil as they come. Detail has always been a major priority to Pixar and so expect lots of things going on in the background that at first you might just miss.

The animation is, as expected, nothing more than breathtaking. The recent success of Shrek shows just what can be done in this field and competition is now fierce for the ultimate 'graphical' masterpiece. The animation is first class but I felt that I wasn't being treated to anything that was new or ground breaking. The only thing that hit me was Sully's fur animation, which to be honest, was the only time I recall seeing such a thing attempted in a film and felt that it was worth the time it must have took to create the effect. When the wind blew around Sully you can see every individual hair move in it's own way. Now that's impressive.

But it's not just about how great the animation is. Is the story good enough to satisfy child and parent alike. Well absolutely YES. It has one of the most magical stories whilst still being a little on the dark side. This is why for me it works so well across all peer groups. The children can relate to the feelings they get when in bed alone in the dark and the adult can have a good laugh at them. Perfect.

Keep your eyes peeled as there is a plethora of little 'IN' things to spot. Items that appear in other Pixar films some how find there way into this one and are just gagging to be discovered. Have a read of our 'Facts' box below for some fine examples.

On the negative side..........errrrr...........No that's me done.

Key Area	Rating (out of 5)	Comment
Action		Action in an animated sense. If you have ever seen a cartoon then you will know what I mean. The outstanding part here would have to be the door chase scene. Very fast and full of adventure. Also the scenes in which the little girl go missing are great for a spot of immature adrenaline.
Thrills/ Tension		The completely zany characters and the lives that they lead make for a thrilling ride. Once the story really kicks in there are a ton of gripping, but fun moments that will have you feeling the squeeze. Some moments might be a little scary for the very young but stick with it as they are usually followed by a light hearted moment that will bring back the smiles.
Violence/ Gore	NONE	The only violence is done in a fun, slapstick way and with it being animation, doesn't really warrant a score in this section.
Bare Flesh	NONE	This is a children's movie so expect nothing more naked than a shaved monster's butt.
Plot		A plot so inspired, original and down right fun, that it could have only been made into a children's animation movie. As with other Pxar/Disney collaborations (A Bugs Life, Toy Story) the plot makes for great amusement for both kids and their parents which is why they are so appealing.

Verdict You know what I love about this type of film. It's the fact that no matter how old you are you can enjoy the fun, excitement and humor that only an animated production can produce. Pixar have done a fantastic job with Monsters Inc. and have created a story that is so imaginative, it will take you a few minutes to believe what you are seeing. The animation is good and the plot will keep you interested until the credits roll. If you have children, take them to see this little gem as I don't think they will be disappointed. Just make sure they know it's only a film or you could be in for a long night.

The most fun you can have with your clothes on.