Today’s quick review: Incredibles 2. The Incredibles get another shot at the superhero life when Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk), an enthusiastic corporate sponsor, offers to fund them. Elastigirl (Holly Hunter) is chosen to spearhead the program, resuming her crime-fighting activity and pushing for superhero legalization, while Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson) stays home with the kids (Sarah Vowell, Spencer Fox, and Eli Fucile).
Incredibles 2 is an animated superhero action comedy that picks up where the first Incredibles left off. After a brief stint as heroes, the super-powered family is forced back underground by the government, only to find a lifeline in the form of wealthy philanthropist Winston Deavor and his tech-savvy sister Evelyn (Catherine Keener). The film offers family comedy and superhero action in the classic mold, all backed by rock-solid execution.
Incredibles 2 has much of the same charm as the original. Great character dynamics, a light sense of humor, large-scale action scenes, and a phenomenal brass soundtrack all contribute to a fun, energetic watch that hits the target it’s aiming for. The Incredibles behave like a family, and their distinctive personalities give the film much of its appeal. The action doesn’t slouch either, with a few new tricks to mix things up.
The new additions to the universe are generally good ones, but tastes may vary. The new villain, Screenslaver, is enough of a hook to drive the superhero side of the plot. The new crop of heroes is a mixed bag; they serve a useful purpose, but their designs are a step down from the Incredibles and Frozone (Samuel L. Jackson). The family side of the story is also less polished, with solid individual scenes that lack an overarching sense of purpose.
Watch Incredibles 2 when you’re in the mood for something upbeat and well-rounded. Fans of the original will be pleased with the second entry in the series, while newcomers can join the fun without feeling too lost. Whether the sequel matches the first or falls a little short will come down to personal preference, but Incredibles 2 is well worth checking out. For another Disney superhero movie in a similar vein, try Big Hero Six.
8.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for a good mixture of comedy and action backed by all-around solid craftsmanship.