Bolt Review: (Almost) Fully Awesome

I was lucky enough to catch a preview screening of Bolt in 3D tonight. After waiting in the freezing cold for about a half hour and then another 20 minutes after the film was supposed to start so the screening sponsors could give random stuff away, I finally got to see the film we've been hearing about for so long. The one that was supposed to breathe new life into Disney animation. The one that was supposed to give the Mouse some of its street cred back. Does Bolt succeed?


For the most part, yes. I'm pleased to report that the film is bouncy and fun, and has a nice helping of that classic Disney heart that's been missing for quite some time. There are some great funny bits throughout, and the animation looks super (especially in 3D). From a storytelling standpoint, the second act is about 10 minutes too short - we still become emotionally involved with the characters, but Bolt doesn't take the time to really transport the viewer the way Pixar's films tend to do. Compare Bolt's narrative to that of Finding Nemo (which is also about a lost creature trying to find his way home) and you'll see what I mean. This theme of being "lost and found" is pretty prevalent throughout the Disney canon, but film I was most reminded of while watching Bolt was Oliver & Company.


Just saying:






Meet Penny. She has lost her beloved pet, who must navigate the busy streets of NYC to find his way home.







Meet Jenny. She has lost her beloved pet, who must navigate the busy streets of NYC to find his way home.


The only real difference is that Penny is a famous TV star and Jenny ... plays the piano.


I don't want to spoil the film, so I won't discuss plot details here - but I would definitely recommend seeing it, especially in 3D (gorgeous!). Bolt is a sweet, funny, not too cutesy film that parents will laugh at and kids will love. And while it's not at the Pixar level of awesomeness, Bolt is a sign that Disney Animation is headed in the right direction. And that, my friends, is fully awesome.


Bolt opens in theatres Friday.