REVIEW: Cars 3 Zooms Back On Track

Pixar manages to get the Cars franchise back on track with their third installment, Cars 3. Directed by Brian Fee, Cars 3 opens with Lightning McQueen, voiced again by Owen Wilson, doing what hedoes best: winning races. McQueen soon begins to see he may not have what it takes to win after newer, more technologically advanced rookies arrive on the scene. McQueen sets out on a journey of self-discovery, alongside his wacky trainer Cruz Ramirez, voiced by newcomer Cristela Alonzo. Together they go back to the roots of McQueen’s mentor, Doc Hudson, and learn more about themselves and their futures.

The story is reminiscent of the original Cars, the plot is simple, the animation is wonderful, and audiences will leave the theater happy. This film lacks the depth of the first film but is miles ahead of the second. The newer characters aren’t explored and McQueen’s struggles with getting older are rushed at points. To be fair, the children won’t notice this at all.

Most of the original cast is back for this new addition. Larry The Cable Guy reprises his role as McQueen’s best friend, Mater, while Bonnie Hunt returns, after missing Cars 2, as Sally. The original cast is grossly underused. Seeing familiar faces was a treat and their short screen time is a definite downer. Newcomer Nathan Fillion does a wonderful job of voicing McQueen’s new sponsor Sterling, while Alonzo is adorable as Ramirez.This is Wilson’s film though and the humor and heart come from him.

Unlike the film before it, Cars 3 manages to get back to what made the first film so delightful. The tale of personal growth and dealing with age and all its ramifications, although told through racecars, is one that will always appeal to audiences young and old. Cars 3 is definitely a good pick to beat the summer heat for children and adults.

Grade: B