RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET
A simple and familiar story takes a backseat
to colorful characters, sight gags and enough going on in the background to warrant repeat viewings of this CG animated, worthy follow-up to the inventive 2012 original. Once inside the internet, everything from search engines, pop-up ads and the dark web are skewered. Directors/co-writers Phil Johnston and Rich Moore (story co-scripted with Jim Reardon, Pamela Ribon and Josie Trinidad) aren't afraid to bite the hand that feeds them. The Disney corner of the web gets plenty of jabs. The best is a funny cut at the studio's princesses. Several actresses reprise their vocal roles. Among those present are Jodi Benson(Ariel), Mandy Moore (Rapunzel), Irene Bedard (Pocahontas), Kristen Bell (Anna) and Idina Menzel (Elsa). Vin Diesel gets to sound off as Baby Groot. Some of Walt's more obscure characters, including Humphrey the Bear and park ranger J. Audubon Woodlore in traditional cartoon form, make brief appearances. Reprising their vocal roles (along with John C. Reilly, Sarah Silverman and Ed O'Neill) are Jack McBrayer and Jane Lynch as Fix-It Felix Jr. and his gruff wife, Sergeant Calhoun. Alan Tudyk also returns, but as a different character: search engine KnowsMore. New voices include Gal Gadot as Shank, the fearless racer in the "Slaughter Race" game, and Taraji P. Henson as Yesss, an algorithm that determines the trending videos on BuzzTube. There's a lot to absorb in the film - including over the closing credits. Stay through the end for a couple of scenes and the song "Zero" from Imagine Dragons. As cartoon sequels go, this ingenious romp is a game changer. (4/5 CAMS)
Rated PG (some action and rude humor)
Running Time: 112 minutes
