by Roy Runnels

Special coupon for Dinuba Platinum Theatre at the end of this review.

Wreck-It Ralph is a different kind of movie. It’s one that many will enjoy, but for those that understand all the video game references, it will be one filled nostalgia. The sheer amount of Easter eggs and homages that Disney managed to pack into this movie is unbelievable. Even if you understand just a few of the references you’ll find yourself smiling. Whether it’s Bowser from the Mario games sitting in a meeting or a Metal Gear Solid reference that I won’t spoil, the movie consistently made me grin.

To be clear, this movie isn’t just for those that love games. You could walk into the theater and have a completely enjoyable time watching it even if you have never played a video game. That’s the magic of this movie, it has something for everyone. Don’t be afraid that the movie is only for a certain audience because all seven of the people I saw it with loved it, and only three of us are gamers.

While Pixar didn’t have a hand in the movie, it shares some things in common with Toy Story. All the video game characters are alive and interact with the other arcade games every night when the arcade closes. Ralph, the “villain” from the arcade game Fix-it Felix, eventually realizes that he hates being the bad guy and embarks on a journey to redeem himself. He begins traveling into other arcade games and accidentally causes trouble.

The cast does an excellent job in their roles and the writing is well done. What really blew me away at times though was the animation. As I said previously, Pixar had nothing to do with the movie, but the animation is top notch and shows that even without the help of Pixar’s core animation team, Disney can produce some incredible work. The way the characters move varies from person to person. Some move rigidly because they are meant to be old video game characters. Then you have more recent games where the animation moves fluidly and naturally. Not to mention the art style for each section is very distinct and charming in various different ways.

Wreck-It Ralph is a great work of art that anyone of any age should go see. Disney has created another fun and incredible world, and it’s one that I wouldn’t mind visiting again.

Check out the movie trailer on their website.

Wreck-It Ralph is currently playing at Dinuba Platinum Theatres 6. Showtimes for other shows playing in Dinuba can be found on their website.

Print this coupon and enjoy a special discount for Kings River Life readers only!

Roy Runnels is a 21 year old aspiring writer currently working on becoming an English teacher. He has a great deal of interest in television as well as video games, when he is not busy writing. Roy was born in Lake Jackson, Texas and moved to Reedley, California in late 2012.