Wreck-It Ralph - 10 stars out of 10

Wreck-It Ralph - 10 stars out of 10

"Wreck-It Ralph" is one of the most creative movies that I have ever seen.  It is totally different than any other movie out there, both in its concept and its atmosphere.  It has a great balance of laugh-out-loud moments, stunning visuals, and empathy for 8-bit arcade characters.  Its ability to highlight classic video game characters without clouding the plot is nothing short of impressive.  Even if you don't recognize a lot of the video game characters, you will still be overwhelmed by nostalgia.  The clever use of the video game characters is supplemented by endless jokes and gags using candy in Sugar Rush.  The story itself is amazing.  It never feels as if this is just an excuse to make a movie about video game characters.  Goofy plot ideas, like the characters becoming homeless if the game is unplugged, become realistic.  Honestly, this entire world becomes realistic!  The script is laid out beautifully as it nonchalantly introduces several important plot points which become vital to the resolution of the story.  There were a few jaw-dropping moments when those realizations hit me.  The characters leap off of the screen (no 3D pun intended) as they take on the human elements of loneliness, friendship, and the need for acceptance.  The voice actors give shape to these characters, particularly Sarah Silverman whose voice perfectly fits the lovable little brat personality of Vanellope.  John C. Reilly's ability to transition between gruffness and loneliness makes the Donkey Kong-esque Ralph into a very deep character who will tug at your heart.  The Felix character is completely defined by Jack McBrayer, the only person who can properly deliver the nerdy elements of his dialogue.  For a cartoon, Sergeant Calhoun is really hott and Jane Lynch was a great choice, particularly because she is so popular right now and this character is totally her.  Throw in the All-State guy and Alan Tudyk's Mad Hatter voice and you have the complete package.  Even with all of these great voice actors, the funniest character is probably Sour Bill with his incredibly dry delivery of every line.  The best part of "Wreck-It Ralph" is the way that it transports you into this video game world.  Whether it is Ralph's proportionally large hands, the way that the video game characters stereotypically move (jerky moves by the penthouse characters, Felix's jumping about, Vanellope's glitch), or the creative perspective of the characters being able to look out into the arcade from their game, this world begins to exist.  Even though you will find yourself laughing out loud as the bartender from Tapper delivers drinks and Vanellope makes "duty" jokes, the movie will probably leave a tear in your eye as Ralph discovers the power of friendship.  This may not be a Pixar film and it doesn't matter.  It is unique on the same level as "Toy Story" and I do not say that without deeply considering what I just said.  "Wreck-It Ralph" is a must-see for all ages that will leave you saying "Wow.  Just, wow."