Naturally, the animation is top notch and even near-magical in spots, especially a celestial dance sequence throughout the galaxy which is visually awe-inspiring.
But all this Best Picture Oscar-nomination talk is overstated nonsense churned out by film tourists, deadline jockeys and misguided manchild pundits. Despite what Jeffrey Wells says, all movies should be considered an option for Best Picture – animated or no, but regardless,”Wall-E,” while beguiling is far too light as a feather to be considered for serious Oscar contention.
Though it’s not frivolous, talk of the movie’s environmental/ecological themes are also overinflated as this thesis is thin and ephemeral; it’s a love story about two robots that lightly grazes upon the idea of where mankind is headed and where we might end up if we don’t remain vigilant towards the increasing issues facing our planets future. But that’s about as deep as it gets, because it’s merely a side dish to the computer, Mac-shilling (naturally, Pixar=Apple) romance.
Best Picture films are generally considered for their weight and a resonance that lasts longer than the 90-some minutes of your theater experience and “Wall-E” doesn’t chart there. No, it’s not cause “serious” films means no animated movies or comedies, those should be considered as well, but they need some gravitas and deeper richness (see “Annie Hall”).
This is not to say “Wall-E” isn’t completely enjoyable and fun. New animated modern classic? Sure, we suppose we won’t argue that, you’re kids are going to love it for years; though its no “Lion King” just quite, and its facile ending doesn’t help its case.
Lovable film, near magical in spots? Absolutely. But Best Picture Nod? Not a chance. Like Werner Herzog before us, if this film earns a nomination we’ll eat our shoe. You can mark that down if you wish, but note, we’ll be keeping track of your ridiculous predictions too.
