Monsters University (10/29/2013)

Rated G

Starring the voices of Billy Crystal, John Goodman, Helen Mirren, John Krasinski and
Steve Buscemi

Directed by Dan Scanlon

Rarely do sequels measure up to the original… Monsters University does just that!

Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer. The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right.

First things first, Mike and Sulley are two of my all-time favorite Disney/Pixar characters. On par with Buzz and Woody, they are the perfect “odd couple.” And although I’m not usually a fan of Billy Crystal and John Goodman, they are absolutely perfect in these roles. Throw in Helen Mirren, John Krasinski and (the returning) Steve Buscemi and you have a winning team.

The story is incredibly strong and the script is smart and funny. My son and I laughed throughout the entire movie.

Like other Pixar films, the animation is flawless. It is so colorful and the monsters all look different enough to make watching them enjoyable.

One final note, the Pixar short that plays before Monsters University was quite possibly the lamest Pixar short I’ve ever seen. But Monsters University is still “Worth Buying.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
Yes, this is a great film for the entire family.

CONVERSATION STARTER

1. How did Mike and Sully originally view their team?


2. How would you describe their team?


3. What were the things that led to the team’s success?


4. Read 1 Corinthians 1:10
   
   I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.
   
   
5. How did the differences of the individuals initially hurt the team?


6. How did those differences eventually help the team?


7. What are some practical ways we can be united in mind and thought even when we disagree with each other?