holy smokes: the Incredibles

Okay, so I’ll say this upfront. There is a very tender part of my heart reserved for the Iron Giant (read: Brad Bird), one of the most underrated animated films in recent memory. And so I was on pins and needles to see the Incredibles. I mean, how could it be anything other than awesome — Sarah Vowell performed a voice!

And boy, did it deliver. Did it ever!

It was the movie that Spy Kids II wanted to be. Even though the characters were computer generated, I felt a genuine connection with them. The jungle chase sequences were fantastic; I wonder how much time and work that required. The family, I mean come on, how can you not love ‘em? Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson. And the effects, they were infinitely better than Spiderman 2. No, really.

And the homage to the golden age of superheroes (1950’s retro stylings) as well as the spy movieish score were both nice touches. And the zany humor just about killed me on the spot.

My favorite scene was when Frozone was trying to find his super suit. All while all hell is breaking loose outside their high rise apartment.

Frozone: Honey? Where’s my super suit?
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): What?
Frozone: Where. Is. My. Super. Suit?
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): I put it away.
Frozone: Where?
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): Why do you need to know?
Frozone: I need it!
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): Uh-uh! Don’t you think about running off doing no daring do. We’ve been planning this dinner for two months.
Frozone: The public is in danger!
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): My evening’s in danger!
Frozone: You tell me where my suit is, woman! We are talking about the greater good!
Girlfriend/Wife (off-screen): Greater good? I am your wife! I’m the greatest good you are ever gonna get!

There’s even a gag about “monolouging”, the tendency for villains to endlessly explain their evil plans and deeds. Works like a charm. And the superhero costume designer E is a delightful homage to Bond’s Q (and her line of reasoning why capes are never a good idea is priceless).

In short, I would recommend this movie even if you don’t have kids. Two thumbs up. Way up. If you do have kids, I wonder how it holds up after repeated viewings. Someone let me know. Thanks.