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⭐ 8.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

I had only seen this movie once before, and all I remember is that montage near the beginning. That's 10/10, but unfortunately this is not a short film. It never quite lives up to the promise of that opening, but I thought it was enjoyable and funny at times. The story seems kind of random. Its like they had this gangbuster setup for a movie and then filled in the final hour to justify making it a feature length. An old explorer with talking dogs is trying to kill an endangered bird and our unlikely duo stops them is a weird direction to go after an old man loses the love of his life. Feels like there must have been a more coherent direction to go.

Regardless, I like how weird this movie is. The whole floating house idea is beautiful and symbolic and creative. The kid is cute, you feel bad for the old guy. Some really great pieces. Made me think of Turning Red a bit, kind of an strange standalone that works because it is so different. I doubt I will ever see Elemental because isn't it just Soul or Inside Out, this time with elements? I love when Pixar does something creative, instead of sequels or attempts and making massive statements on life.

So while not my favourite, I respect what they are going for. And again, that montage is an all-time Pixar flex, some of the best story telling I've ever seen. We were just at a wedding where they played that song during the ceremony, which is a weird choice because it made me teary but not in a happy way.

Curious to see how Pixar adjusts now that Sony is stealing their lunch money.