Speed Racer

Speed Racer is the film equivalent of Space Mountain at Disneyland. It's fast, furious and fun for the whole family. Also like Space Mountain, it's a tripped-out roller coaster that never slows down. The film sets a new standard for computer generated special effects. Directed by The Matrix magicians, The Wachowski Brothers (Andy and Larry), the film is a visual assault. The racing some of the most vibrant and colorful CGI landscapes ever committed to film. Just watch the Mt. Fuji sequence or the final showdown at the end for proof. The Wachowski's definitely bring the classic cartoon to life in vibrant 21st century digital Technicolor.

In addition, the plot works too, a rarity for a big budget sci-fi, action flick like this. The movie centers on the Racer Family, the only honest clan in the high speed racing game. There's Mom (Susan Sarandon), Pops (John Goodman), Spritle, Sparky and Chim Chim the Monkey, who steals his fair share of scenes. Then there's the film's namesake Speed. He's been obsessed with racing since his childhood, looking up to his older brother Rex (Scott Porter), who died in a mysterious crash after allegedly joining racing's dark side. So Speed, a very believable and passionate Emile Hirsch, follows in big bro's footsteps, but he burns more track than any other racer proceeding him. He's so good that he garners the attention of a corporate conglomerate leader named Royalton, the ever-evil Roger Allam. Royalton makes him a seemingly irrefutable offer, but Speed turns the evil empire down. Then he has to fight his way back up. It's a simple plot, but it's all that's necessary, because the action fuels this film.

The movie is pure, kinetic energy. Even the sequences of Speed as a kid flow quickly. The film's got a gorgeous '50s throwback look and the bright colors and pastels come to life on the screen. The art direction and atmosphere are top notch, even in the scenes where the Racer family is just eating pancakes at home. Yet, there's nothing compared to the adrenaline rush of the race sequences. It's like entering a video game world with no seatbelt.

Goodman holds it down as Pops and Sarandon's an inspiring mom. Hirsch pulls off Speed with equal aplomb. The monkey often steals the show and he and Spritle's antics consist of 90 percent of the comic relief. In addition, Christina Ricci plays Speed's love interest Trixie, and her cute sassiness makes for a commendable romantic foil for Speed.

Yes, it's a kids film, and you'll hear that complaint ad nauseum from film snobs. However, we all had to become cinephiles somewhere. And what better place to start than a high octane ride like this? Plus, you know how many adults are in line at Space Mountain right now? Too many.

—Rick Florino
05.09.08