IN a cinematic landscape where sequels, prequels and reboots are all too often a huge disappointment, you can still trust the relatively safe hands of Pixar to get it right.
To celebrate the release of The Incredibles 2, Close-up Culture has ranked Pixar sequels and prequels from worst to best. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
Cars 2
PIXAR may have been best served leaving Cars 2 out of sight in the garage. This sequel is easily the most disappointing film in the entire Pixar catalogue.
Cars 3
AN impressive recovery after the car crash that was Cars 2 veered completely off track. Cars 3 lands most of its emotional beats to tell the comeback story of ageing race car Lightening McQueen. A much better effort although it not quite at the lofty standard we expect from Pixar.
Finding Dory
WE jumped back into the Great Barrier Reef for more laughs and tears with a colourful range of aquatic characters. Finding Dory was a satisfactory – albeit rather safe – companion to Finding Nemo.
Monsters University
IN Pixar’s only prequel to date, we discovered what Mike and Sully got up to in their university days. Just like Finding Dory, Monsters University is a welcome Pixar follow up even if it does not reach the level of its precursor.
Toy Story 2
INTRODUCING Jessie to the gang along with that beautifully emotional flashback sequence, Toy Story 2 was a winning first foray into sequels for Pixar.
The Incredibles 2
AFTER a 14-year wait, this loveably dysfunctional family of superheroes return with a film to surpass the original with slick visuals, a lean script and flashy action. Not to forget the more prominent role of superbaby Jack-Jack who steals the show with his numerous powers and raccoon-brawling antics.
Toy Story 3
PIXAR at its finest, Toy Story 3 delivered big in laughs and even larger in tender sequences. A film that displays sequels, when done with care and attention, can tap into familiarity and attachment that brings our emotional investment to another level.