Synopsis
The animated feature film Incredibles 2 represents another long expected sequel in the animated movie industry, preceding Pixar’s animated movie, “The Incredibles.” Incredibles 2, which was also written and directed by Brad Bird, was released in 2018 and has its storyline based immediately from the end of the first movie, with the superhero family, the Parrs, gearing up to fight another villain, the Underminer.
The film starts off with the Parr family, which consists of Bob Parr aka Mr. Incredible, Helen Parr aka Elastigirl, and their children: Dash, Violet, and Jack Jack, in their attempts to thwart another villain, the Underminer, from committing a bank heist and terrorizing the city. Unfortunately, the Underminer escapes and the entire city artwork is in shambles. This brings the Parr family back to reality, where they need to face the bitter truth that superheroes are still illegal, no matter the good intention.
Under such circumstances, the family of superheroes endured the shutdown ‘Superhero Relocation Program’ which put the entire Parr family in a pathetic socio-economic state. Now they are forced to live in a cheap motel and are uncertain of their fate. Luckily they got an invitation from one of the wealthiest people around, Winston Deavor, who, together with his tech savvy sibling, Evelyn, aims to restore the superheroes back into the people’s favor.
Nevertheless, Winston’s approach involves assigning the role of the leading figure of the movement to Helen Parr (Elastigirl) instead of Bob. Winston thinks that Elastigirl’s grace and capability of minimizing collateral damage makes her the most suitable candidate to lead their movement. She becomes the icon for the movement to reinstate the heroes, while Bob stays at home to take care of the children.
This change in the division of responsibilities provides the basis for twp interdependent plots: the thrilling escapades of Elastigirl, and the more mundane, yet equally challenging, life of Bob as a full-time parent.
As Elastigirl undertakes to resolve crimes with the sophisticated and stylish, high-tech motor bike, and the clever use of tactics, she comes against a new criminal in town— the Screenslaver, who has the unique ability to hypnotize people with her screens and control their actions. The villain certainly has an unclear end for her, though it begs the question: why has our society become so reliant on superheroes and screens?
At the same time, Bob is diligently at home with Violet trying to resolve her developmental challenges, while at the same time supporting Dash with his mathematics homework, while simultaneously trying to comprehend the chaotic, and awful, new abilities of Jack-Jack that have manifested. Jack-Jack has the capability of multiplying, shooting thermal vision, and transforming into a terrible monster, which easily makes him the most captivating character in any scene.
Bob quickly realizes fighting crime does not come easier than parenting. Appreciative of Helen’s past efforts, he grows exhausted, but more determined than ever to bond with his children.
As she investigates the Screenslaver, Elastigirl hautingly discovers that Evelyn Deavor, Winston’s sister, is the real villain. Evelyn believes society is too reliant on superheroes and technology and as such, seeks to keep superheroes permanently outlawed. Through the usage of goggles and screens, she turns various heroes to do her mindless bidding and her attempts to thwart the comeback of superheroes becomes her primary goal.
As with the previous battles, the capture of Elastigirl means that it is now up to Bob with the children. In particular, Violet and Dash must lift the crown on this occasion. With the assistance of Lucius Best, better known as Frozone, and the return of the renowned fashion designer Edna Mode, the Parr family triumphs. Together, they defeat the mindless heroes, cunningly outmaneuver Evelyn, and quell a runaway boat on the verge of collision with the city.
This overwhelming freedom that the family is able to make use of is a testament to the love and connection they share as a team. Superheroes are again well regarded by the general public and can look forward to the new world that is opening.
Cast & Characters
Similarly to ‘The Incredibles’, most of the voice cast is retained, while also adding a number of new characters to the story in ‘Incredibles 2’.
Bob Parr/Mister Incredible aka Craig T. Nelson is a super-strong hero, struggling with the new role of a stay-at-home dad.
Holly Hunter is Helen Parr/Elastigirl, a hero who is extremely flexible and quick-witted and whop specializes in headlining adventures.
Violet Parr aka Sarah Vowell is the teenage daughter who possesses the ability to become invisible and to generate force fields.
Huck Milner is Dash Parr, an electrifying young boy who possesses the ability to run at the speed of light.
Jack-Jack Parr, eloquently voiced by Eli Fucile is the baby who possesses an endless supply of unpredictaboe powers and cuteness.
The voice of Lucius Best/Frozone is done by Samuel L. Jackson, a heroic figure who has the ability to freeze and is always there when required.
Catherine Keener steps into the shoes of Evelyn Deavor who is the younger sister of Winston and is the mastermind of the Screenslaver in the story.
Finally, Edna Mode is played by Brad Bird, a supremely fashionable true who has a role of sitting as the babysitter of Jack Jack while designing suits for the Supers.
Direction, Animation, and Music
Directed and written by: Mr. Brad Bird
Produced by: John Walker and Nicole Paradis Grindle
Studio: Pixar Animation Studios
Music composed by: Mr. Michael Giacchino
There is no doubt the animation in Incredibles 2 is very sleek and colorful. Pixar has really went above and beyond in the technology department as compared to the first film and the action scenes in particular are pristine with respect to elastigirl’s chase scenes and Jack-Jack’s antics in battling a racoon.
The same energetic and jazzy score composed from the previous film is beautifully infused with new sounds to create a balance, matching the retro modern feel to the time.
IMDb Ratings and Reception
The film Incredibles 2 has received a score of 7.6/10 on IMDb which is a positive score, and received a focus of attention from both the pundits and the viewers. It is considered to be a very good piece of visual art for the following reasons:
The story full of meaningful and humorous moments with superhero action mixed with some family struggles.
The development of characters, in particular Helen and Bob, who both change for the better.
The visual art features of Jack-Jack who has some very funny and charming elements and enhances the fan experience with his irrational and wild powers.
The contemporary issues reflected in this film such as role reversals in parenting, screen addiction and trusting one’s own identity.
The film set new box office benchmarks, cementing its position among the most profitable animated films. It was nominated for a number of awards, including:
The Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film.
Its positive reception centered on the ability to present strong family values, the importance of cooperation, and the need for individual development in an entertaining manner.
Conclusion
Incredibles 2 is a captivating, amusing, and touching continuation of the first film, and it is a testament to the film’s legacy. It is more than a feature about superheroes; it addresses more complex issues of parenthood, self, citizenship, and self-identity. It is a welcome reprieve from the clichés of superhero films and a welcome addition to the canon, shifting focus to Elastigirl, while portraying Bob’s experiences as a fulltime dad.
The Parr family, with all their peculiarities and superpowers, is so relatable as they portray the daily episodes of love, responsibility, and self. And with Jack-Jack’s amusing stunts, along with the family’s spirit, Incredibles 2 shows that the greatest superpower of all is being there for one another.
Watch Free Movies on Kisscartoon
