Big Hero 6 - Review

As the curtain comes down on 2014, Disney saves one of its best for last. Big Hero 6 is a gorgeously animated, action-packed superhero origins story with multi-generational appeal. Based upon a Marvel comic series by the same name, Big Hero 6 takes place in a futuristic city known as San Fransokyo, a merging of the geography and infrastructure of San Francisco with the other-worldly visual appeal of Tokyo.

Hiro (Ryan Potter) is a prodigious robot builder, who spends his time hustling for cash by entering his adorable (yet lethal) robots in illegal street fights, frequently bringing Hiro to the notice of the police. In an attempt to straighten Hiro out and unlock his true potential, his older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) introduces Hiro to his University colleagues. Tragedy strikes, however, and Hiro is forced to use his special skills in an entirely unforeseen manner and, with the help of a new friend named Baymax, rise up against a mysterious figure terrorising his city.

After their marvelous work with Frozen, Disney Animations take things to new and astonishing levels. While the character designs feel fresh and modern, the true standout is what they've accomplished in bringing San Fransokyo to life. The city is incredibly realised and utterly immersive, reframing the viewer as a wide-eyed tourist in a big new world. The attention to detail, even for split-second shots, is fantastic. I’m hoping that this is the start of a successful franchise, as I demand to see more of the city (you hear that Disney?!).

The seamless blending of Japanese and Western aesthetics flows nicely into the film’s overall handling of race themes, in that it doesn’t make a big deal about it. Most characters seem to be of mixed racial heritage, which the film treats without comment. It’s a great message for Disney to be sending out. Whilst this is film may appeal to younger boys, the film contains some really interesting female characters. They are tough, smart and independent heroes who don’t mind kicking butt. The film contains a great message for young girls: GoGo Tomago, voiced by Jamie Chung, is constantly telling her male counterparts to “woman up!” when she’s inspiring them to toughen up.

Just as Groot and Rocket stole the show in Guardians of the Galaxy earlier this year, I think everyone walking out of Big Hero 6 will only want one thing: their own Baymax. Baymax, voiced by Scott Adsit, is a robotic nurse who is bequeathed to Hiro early in the film and possibly the most loveable character you’ll have ever seen on screen. Despite being a machine, Baymax represents the heart and soul of the film and, I must warn you, he’ll make you laugh and cry in equal measure. This is the perfect film to take the family to over the holiday break, which will entertain both adults and kids alike. Please don’t let this one pass you by.

Feast

Big Hero 6 accompanied by an adorable short film titled Feast. I don’t want to spoil this little gem for you except to say it’s for fans of The Lady and the Tramp and those who were swept away by the first 10 minutes of Up.

If you see the film and agree or disagree with my review feel free to drop a line below or come over and kick us in the pants at our Facebook page.

- Stu