D52–Wreck-It Ralph

2012 brought about the latest (as of this writing) release from Disney’s animation division, Wreck-It Ralph. Marketed as the Toy Story of the videogame world, it delved into the lives of videogame characters and what happens when the player walks away. Prior to its release, it generated huge buzz based on the fact that Disney managed to secure the rights to many classic game characters, for games as varied as Pac-Man, Mario, Street Fighter, Metal Gear Solid, and many others. That hype, combined with strong reviews, helped the film reach a final box office total of over $281 million.

From a technical standpoint, Wreck-It Ralph continues in the footsteps of Bolt and Tangled. The animation itself is fluid (or, in the case of the 8-bit characters, brilliantly stuttery) and the environments are richly detailed. The script is well written, allowing for each of the main characters to develop and delivering plenty of appearances from classic game characters, without allowing the film to devolve into nothing but a string of cameos. The voice cast is strong, though none of the many well known actors on display here really stand out. The directing is likely the film’s weakest point. While it is good enough, and certainly doesn’t get in the way, it also doesn’t do anything to distinguish itself.

As a videogame nerd, I loved this movie the first time I saw it. There are so many fantastic little nods to gamers and great in-jokes that it would be hard for me not too. Even if you’ve never played a game in your life, though, there’s plenty here to enjoy. On my first viewing, I thought the plot spent a little too much time in the Sugar Rush world, which I found to be the least interesting of the film’s many environments. Watching it again, though, I didn’t have that same complaint. This is a very good movie that is easy for anyone to enjoy. Gamers may get the most out of it, but everyone from the youngest kids to the grandparents will find characters to love and have a great time watching it.

Original theatrical trailer

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