In terms of sequels, Pixar has been very up and down. 'Cars 2' was an unusual sequel choice (and a bit of a bad one), but luckily, the 'Toy Story' films were all strong, and is one of the very rare examples of a series that got better as it went along. In fact, 'Toy Story 3' was the last real 'good' animation that Pixar studios had created before 'Monsters University' lit up our screens. As said above, 'Cars 2' was a boring sequel and 'Brave' was a pretty big disappointment, but thankfully, 'Monsters University' is a big turn around. It works well as both a prequel to one of the greatest animated films of all time, as well as a film in its own right. These characters prove to be just as fun as they were 12 years ago! Mike, Sully and whole new crew are bursting with more fun, and there are many scenes that link up events, explaining things that occurred in Monsters Inc.
Billy Crystal and John Goodman once again, beautifully bounce off one-another's characters with Crystal as Mike, a monster who tries his hardest, studies all the time, but sadly he is just not naturally scary. John Goodman, is once again the large furry, Sully, a monster who doesn't study hard, he just thinks that because he is his father's son, that he will be able to scare kids no problem. The great thing about 'Monsters University' is, that we get to see how these two characters meet, it's a sort of 'Jock and Nerd' scenario. Funnily enough, they don't start out as friends, the development of their relationship is one of the sub-points in this story.
Steve Buscemi is back with his slimy voice perfect for Randall, and there is also a funny surprise with his character... he's not evil. Again, this film depicts the events that caused him to become what he is in 'Monsters Inc.' A new voice is welcome into the 'Monsters' world with Helen Mirren as Dean Hardscrabble, a dragon/centipede looking monster whose voice is so morbid and evil, it is perfect. There are many new voices and new characters, making this film fun to watch.
Despite some lack of originality, it effectively links back to 'Monsters Inc.' and the screenplay is Pixar's best since 'Toy Story 3'. The film eventually follows the course of five challenges, that five monster teams must finish, to prove that they are the best team on campus. The plot is nice, simple, so what if it is formulaic?! It provides fantastic entertainment and broadens upon how Mike and Sully became the monsters that they are. 'Monster's University' is also one of the more moralistic Pixar stories in years depicting Greed, Friendship, Individuality and working together. The ideas can be enjoyed by, and related to, both adults and children. It truly is a wild ride.
Pixar's first prequel is made with such charm, style and care, it is hard not to like it. Sure it pushes near on two hours (which may seem long for a kids film) but when the characters are this fun, it is hard to complain.
