Film Review: ‘Big Hero 6’
Director: Don Hall and Chris Williams
Cast: Ryan Potter, Scott Adsit, T.J. Miller, Jaime Chung, Damon Wayans, Jr., Genesis Rodriguez, Daniel Henney, Maya Ruldoph, James Cromwell, Alan Tudyk
Age Restriction: PG V
Genre: Animation, Action, Family
Runtime: 108 minutes
Release date: 24 December 2014
After the massive success of Frozen, Disney Animation is at it again with Big Hero 6 – Disney’s first film to feature Marvel characters. Yes, Big Hero 6 is based on the Marvel comic book of the same name, so this would be Disney animation’s first foray into the superhero genre.
The plot follows 14-year-old Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) a robotics prodigy who resides in the fictional city of San Fransokyo (a combination of San Francisco and Tokyo). Hiro’s older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) – a robotics student – encourages his younger brother to join him at his university.
In order to be granted admission to the university, Hiro needs to come up with an invention that’ll blow everyone’s socks off. Hiro eventually crafts a swarm of micro-bots that can be controlled mentally by the person wearing a neural transmitter. However, as things begin looking up, tragedy strikes, and Tadashi dies in a fire, leaving Hiro devastated.
After accidently activating Baymax (Scott Adsit) – a healthcare robot invented by Tadashi, Hiro discovers that a masked man has been mass-producing his micro-bots invention. Realising that this masked figure has stolen his invention and is attempting something sinister, Hiro recruits Tadashi’s university friends and – with their scientific and robotic knowledge – they form a superhero group along with Baymax.
Big Hero 6 was an absolute joy to watch as its story was well-adapted with the film being high quality entertainment. What makes Big Hero 6 extremely compelling is that its plot is shrouded in mystery as it has the ability to keep audiences guessing… especially with regards to the villain’s intentions.
Because Big Hero 6 is a superhero film, it features plenty of action which is impressive beyond words. The action is well choreographed with an array of explosions and set pieces that’ll have you gasping in awe. It’s so nice to see an animation film with such spectacle – a rare commodity considering the last film to achieve such a feat was 2004’s The Incredibles.
Like all Disney animated films, Big Hero 6 is a film with heart. The film has its fair share of emotion with Hiro not only becoming a superhero in order to take down the masked figure who stole his invention, but to also honour Tadashi’s philosophy of wanting to help people. Yes, Big Hero 6 is that deep as it’s filled with moments that’ll really move audiences – something Disney has always been great at.
The cast all do a solid job in the voice department, especially Scott Adsit who voices the humorous yet inspiring Baymax who, despite being a machine, is relatable to audiences and is nicely developed throughout the film.
In fact, Big Hero 6 should be applauded for its character development as the main character of Hiro is well-developed and well scripted that audiences can really feel the pain he’s going through.
Even the villain is relatable as he’s got a tragic back-story that’ll leave an ache in your heart as you really feel nothing but sympathy for him despite his evil intentions.
Like most animated films of today, Big Hero 6 also has its elements of comedy which bring joy and laughter to audiences.
The only flaw of Big Hero 6 is the development of its supporting characters. While the supporting cast are developed quite nicely, there is room for improvement as it would’ve been nice to get to know them a little better, as the team features six members… and not just two.
It would’ve great if the film’s runtime was extended as 108 minutes (the film’s actual runtime) felt way too quick.
The film’s 3D is below average, so rather opt for 2D instead.
All in all, Big Hero 6 is pure-class entertainment that deserves all the accolades it’s been receiving. Yes, Disney has made a smart choice in meshing their brand with Marvel’s as the amalgamation blends really well together.
Audiences of all ages will enjoy this well-balanced film that’s filled with action, adventure, drama, emotion, comedy and it has a really great story with lots of character driven elements.
Superhero fans, including fans of the comic, shouldn’t hesitate to see this. Parents should take their kids to see this as both parties would definitely enjoy the ride. Adults without any offspring should also give this gem a try as you won’t be disappointed. Don’t be surprised if Big Hero 6 receives an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature – its already got a Golden Globe nod, so why not?
PS. Be sure to stay right after all the credits have rolled as there’s a nice little CGI cameo of a famous Marvel Comics writer. Guess who?
Check out the trailer below:
