"Brad Bird has done it again! "
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When this animated film appeared on the big screen, about a rat who would become an amazing chef, some might wonder how such a film will stand. It's about cooking, sure, however this is the kind of film that is presented as a misnomer, a very pleasant misnomer I might add. People who find such movies entertaining like "Open Season" or "Madagascar" will find this movie slow or boring. Today we tend to expect animated films to have constant high impact and fast driven sequences that will keep ADD children (and adults) from staring into space. For all we know this film may enlighten our younger generation to the prospect of being a cook or chef for a living. However, for the critic in me, I have found this film to be exceptionally refreshing and appealing to all age groups, as well as allowing me to breath and enjoy a two hour journey of moving art. May I be so bold as to say that this was the most enjoyable animated film experience I have had since the first Shrek. Why can't we have more live action films with this kind of caliber?
Brad Bird (Directer of The Iron Giant and The Incredibles) has presented an exceptionally clever story with details scattered throughout that I may not see after watching the film again several times. An example would be the scene following Colette's warning about cuts and burns, when we see Linguine taking notes with a small cut and a few small burns on his hand and arms. What director of animation puts subtle details like that in their films anymore, besides Miyazaki? I don't see this movie as just a kids film either. If you pay close attention, you will notice a couple innuendos (notice where Collette's eyes glance to when Linguine tries to explain that he has "a tiny...a little" chef that tells him what to do). You get the idea. G rated, HA!
The environment (backgrounds) moved with its own personality and flowed just as much as the characters did. This included a number of sweeping camera movements that made me feel like I was closely following Remy at his heels like a fellow rat. In other words, the audience was personally invited to experience his world, not just his character.
The story was charming, clever, and mixed with a hint of sophistication, from every character and original plot, as well as presenting a tasteful sample of romantic culture. The original score was a smooth and a refreshing change from Pixar's usual composer Randy Newman. This is, hands down, the Animated film Oscar winner for the 2008 awards, and arguably the closest contender for an animated film to win Best Picture since "Beauty and the Beast" (however unlikely, but I am not willing to give up on the prospect just yet).
A word to Brad Bird in conclusion (loosely quoting "The Grim Eater" who is the dreaded critic, ironic that I am attempting to be one), you are the master of your trade. I will be looking forward to your next picture, as I am "hungry for more".
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