Monsters University (2013) Review

It's been almost 12 years since Pixar introduced Monsters, Inc in 2001 and after all this time, finally, a prequel has been released this summer. This being the first time Pixar has ever made a prequel, fans of the original film might be slightly apprehensive as to whether the resulting product will bring justice to the first. I, myself, had such concerns, however it is with great relief that I say by the end of the first scene my worries were diminished. The prequel is in keeping with the funny and original writing of the first, the look is the same, the feel the same, the film acts as a genuine telling of a story, rather than something that has been concocted purely for the purposes of making money. This, in itself, helps the film to critically succeed.
Billy Crystal and John Newman return to voice the iconic characters, Mike Wazowski and Sulley Sullivan, respectively. It feels strange to hear their voices voicing the younger university-going versions of their respective characters, but of course authenticity could not be achieved by anyone else voicing them. The premise of the prequel is the telling of how the two became best friends and ended up working for Monsters, Inc. This although a basic idea, is achieved well through the combination of voice acting by Crystal and Newman and is propelled by the excellent script writing of Daniel Gerson, Robert Baird and Dan Scanlon. The film is funny, without losing any of its integrity. It is a film not just aimed at children but incorporates humour for the older generation making it enjoyable for adults; it is clear the writers had this demographic in mind and thankfully realised that many of the prospective audience for the film will be those who saw the original over 10 years ago. 

The animation is of the same high standards that Pixar pride themselves on and the soundtrack composed by Randy Newman compliments the various scenes well, as Newman composed the soundtrack for the first Monsters film, the sound of the film is genuine and is guaranteed to make fans of the original feel a little nostalgic. 

Overall, Pixar has created a truly family friendly movie - one that everyone (no matter the age) can enjoy. The gap between original and prequel has worked in their favour - fans of the original will feel satisfied with another story that encompasses their favourite characters and feel intrigued by the insight the film gives into the backstories and behaviours of those who eventually end up working at Monsters, Inc. Even those who have not seen the original can enjoy this film perfectly adequately; the university story arch is one that is relatable to most, even in a basic 'school' sense. This makes it an easy story-line to follow and one that does not require the 'inside knowledge' given by watching the previous film to enjoy.

4/5 stars

Reviewed by Yaz