Monsters, Inc. - 9 stars out of 10

Monsters, Inc. - 9 stars out of 10

"Monsters, Inc." is a classic computer animated film that blends slapstick comedy with tear-jerking sentimentality.  In true Pixar style, the film is entirely unique because it imaginatively brings to life a world that does not exist.  The bustling city of Monstropolis explains the reason that monsters hide in the closets of children - the energy from the screams is used to power their city.  Now, we are all used to this idea because we have all seen the film and been exposed to the story for over a decade, but think about how clever that concept actually is.  The story gave the brains at Pixar the opportunity to dream up all sorts of monsters and assign a plethora of personalities.  The different monster "designs" open the film up to great comedic moments (like Randall's chameleon-like color changes and several "eye" jokes).  The main characters have more depth than your typical cartoon character.  Sully is particularly deep as he develops a father-daughter relationship with a human girl and must act as her protector.  Just like live actors, you can feel the chemistry between Sully and his tiny cycloptic friend, Mike Wazowski.  The character voices of John Goodman and Billy Crystal are perfect in these roles.  The schemey voice of Steve Buscemi is perfectly cast as the snakelike villain, Randall, and everybody loves to imitate Bob Peterson in the role of Roz.  Perhaps the funniest character interpretation is that of the abominable snowman, voiced by John Ratzenberger.  Beyond the comedy is the emotion that can largely be credited to the soundtrack by Randy Newman.  Boo's theme is versatile, playful as her relationship develops with Sully and then appearing with rhythmic augmentation to create a devastating slow song during the emotional climax of the film.  This film doesn't have "You've Got A Friend In Me" but it doesn't need it.  Whether you are a kid that enjoys the humor or an adult that can appreciate the themes of friendship and moral responsibility, every facet of "Monsters, Inc." shines together to create one of Pixar's best.