"Cars 3" Review

Title: Cars 3

Directed by: Brian Fee

Written by: Kiel Murray, Bob Peterson, and Mike Rich

Year: 2017


The Cars films have never been Pixar's strongest productions. In fact, they are often viewed as the weakest in the Pixar library. But the marketing for the latest sequel showed a more serious story, hinting at a less goofy film than we are used to from the Cars movies. Can this series get on the right track, or is it too late to turn around?

As the years have passed, a new generation of racers has taken over the sport. Following a terrible racing accident, Lightning McQueen is forced to retire, the last of the older racers. After a few months have passed, McQueen has recovered and is eager to to reclaim his title, but he will need help to do it.

Something immediately apparent with this picture is the significant upgrade in the animation quality. When compared to other Pixar features, Cars and Cars 2 had a glossier, more simplistic visual style. The level of detail was never really focused on. But with this third movie, the animation has taken a different turn, looking more realistic and it is fantastic. A lot of this has to do with the evocative lighting, creating a tone that befits the story.

Speaking of which, I am impressed with the direction the story went. Gone are the cheap gags and childish antics of the previous two pictures. At the center of this film are the themes of aging, retiring, and pushing past your limits. The new era of racers has successfully edged out the competitors of old, but McQueen will not give up so easily. McQueen's inner motivation and memory of Doc (who has since passed away) drives him to regain his former status. The story is affecting because of how relatable and authentic it comes across. This is the first Cars movie to actually be about something and not come across as simple entertainment.

Owen Wilson is able to shift his performance to make Lighting's character fall more in line with the story's tone. Wilson capably makes Lighting come across as an endearing and empathetic personality. Kristela Alonzo juxtaposes a more downtrodden McQueen with her energetic portrayal of the lovable Cruz Ramirez, Lightning's trainer and spiritual coach. Cruz is hands down the best character in the franchise since Doc, sporting an infectious personality and a wonderful relationship with the main character.

While I believe Cars 3 to be a solid and compelling film, it does not come without its faults. But my major issue with the film sadly occurs at the end. For the majority of its runtime, the movie is structured as an underdog story, one where the protagonist has lost faith in himself. But somewhere in the third act, the film changes pace and becomes a completely different story, and it is within this alternate narrative that the movie focuses its overall message. I am certain that many will not be bothered by this "twist," but I found it unearned and a betrayal of most of the film. The meaning has merit, but there is hardly any substance to support this thread by the time it rears its head.

Cars 3 is a solid entry in Pixar's ever-expanding library. Departing from the previous two films, Cars 3 takes a more personal approach to the story, which, in turn, strengthens the characters. This feels like a more focused project, where the filmmakers knew what they wanted to accomplish and set out to do it. The cast is more than serviceable; the animation has received a bump in quality; and the story is surprisingly affecting, boasting shades of Rocky Balboa (2006). Unfortunately, I believe that the ending is a stark contrast to what the film was setting up, and hinders the final product. I feel like Cars 3 will be one of Pixar's more underrated efforts in years to come, but I greatly appreciate the attempt to actually give a damn, and the results are pleasing.

Grade: B+