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MOVIE REVIEWS Kids: Luca
Family Movie Night Ciao! Bella! Mozzarella!
BY BONNIE L. HARRIS
WHEN I SAW THE previews for Luca, Pixar’s new animated feature set in a small Italian fishing village, I was more than a little worried that Pixar had jumped off the deep end. But I’m glad I gave the movie a chance! What a charming nostalgic story about a boy, who’s really a sea monster in disguise, and his wish to experience life as a land-locked human. First-time director Enrico Casarosa does a marvelous job of blending underwater fantasy and offbeat Italian humor for a comical adventure with surprises at every turn. The stellar animation, vintage soundtrack, and quirky characters make Luca’s search for happiness a memorable romp that kids and adults will love. Unfortunately for Luca the sea monster, he doesn’t exactly love his quiet life herding his family’s goatfish, and the lure of the shoreline becomes even more irresistible when he meets a strange young sea monster named Alberto. This unfettered friend introduces Luca to life on land and together the boys relish the freedom of two legs and dry feet. Back in the ocean, Luca tries to hide his escapades from his parents, but soon he’s drawn back to Alberto and the seaside town of Portorosso. Their dream to own a Vespa scooter takes over their good sense and soon they’re signing up for the town’s triathlon to win the money to buy one. With the help of young Guilia, whose father is a local fisherman, the boys train for the race, but have to dodge and weave any exposure to water. The town’s phobia against sea monsters gets worse when Luca’s parents arrive in their dry land disguises as humans to bring him home. Of course, nothing goes according to plan, but that’s the fun and although the ending is slightly contrived, the movie’s overall sincerity makes it worthwhile.
LUCA
Walt Disney Pictures Rated: PG Streaming on Disney Plus The underdogs decide to win.
FOR the PARENTS
Super Dad
KEVIN HART’S NEW movie called Fatherhood takes us on the incredibly funny, frustrating, terrifying, and poignant rollercoaster ride of being a single parent. After the unexpected loss of his wife, Hart’s character, Matthew, discovers that caring for an infant is impossibly hard while he juggles his professional job, midnight feedings, endless crying, and disapproving grandparents. His family urges him to throw in the diaper bag, but
Matthew decides that nothing will stop him from raising his daughter,
Maddy. Fast-forward five years and the father-daughter duo have a wonderful routine and strong relationship. But here comes a beautiful new woman named Lizzie who could change their lives. Matthew understandably panics and withdraws, but Maddy tries to help her dad see the possibilities. It takes a close call for Matthew to finally accept that he can never be a perfect father, he just needs to be his hilarious, loyal, and steadfast self. And best of all, Maddy convinces him to make up with Lizzie. The ending comes full circle with Matthew showing his unwavering support for Maddy at her school and the doubtful grandparents finally taking a backseat. Honestly, I can’t wait to watch Fatherhood again for the great laughs and wonderful story. Matthew struggles with style.
