Monsters University

Out last week was Pixar's latest foray, Monsters University. It is the prequel to their hit Monsters, Inc., and is no less fun or entertaining. In fact, it helps you forget that you are a fun-hating adult and relax with the scores of children in the theatre with you.

The movie is about our beloved Mike Wazowski's (Crystal) freshman year of college, and his attempts to become the best scarer on campus. He becomes involved in an inter-fraternity competition where he has to work with rival Sully (Goodman).

This movie, technically speaking, is astonishing. The Pixar wizards have achieved near-photorealism in the sets they create. I mean, look at the picture. The short beforehand, The Blue Umbrella, (which I thought was cute) does an even better job at this. Elements like hair and eyes are the same way. But it never feels like a Mary Poppins live action/animation clash: everything works together perfectly, and I think animators have virtually any tool at their creative disposal now.

Cool technical stuff aside, this movie is just fun. It isn't necessarily surprising or life-changing or anything. It's just a fun ride. Sitting in a room full of kids who laugh at everything makes it even better. It brings back being a kid and being a college freshman at the same time. Each, I think, have their own measure of possibility without doubt mingled in, and that is what Monsters University leaves you with. So go out and see this one, and take a child with you if you can.

Monsters University is rated G for having nothing offensive at all, and features Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi and Helen Mirren.