Cars 3 (2017) Movie Review – A Revitalizing Ride Through Lightning McQueen’s Journey
Cars 3 (2017) is the third installment in Pixar’s beloved animated franchise, directed by Brian Fee. Following the adventures of Lightning McQueen, the film combines high-speed thrills with heartfelt storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on its iconic characters.
Plot Summary: A New Era for Lightning McQueen
In Cars 3, Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) faces the challenges of aging in a sport that evolves rapidly. The plot centers around:
- A New Generation: Lightning McQueen finds himself struggling to keep up with the new, high-tech race cars that are dominating the racing scene. His confidence is shaken when a new rookie, Jackson Storm (voiced by Armie Hammer), emerges as a formidable competitor.
- Retirement and Redemption: After a particularly grueling race, McQueen suffers a significant crash that makes him question his future in racing. Determined to prove that he’s still competitive, he begins a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
- Training and Mentorship: McQueen teams up with Cruz Ramirez (voiced by Cristela Alonzo), a young, enthusiastic trainer who believes in his potential. Together, they work on innovative training techniques to help McQueen regain his edge and find his place in the changing world of racing.
Performances: Voicing with Heart and Humor
- Owen Wilson as Lightning McQueen: Wilson’s voice work continues to bring charm and depth to McQueen, capturing the character’s blend of determination, vulnerability, and humor.
- Cristela Alonzo as Cruz Ramirez: Alonzo’s performance as Cruz Ramirez is energetic and inspiring. Cruz serves as both a mentor and a source of encouragement for McQueen, adding a fresh dynamic to the film.
- Armie Hammer as Jackson Storm: Hammer’s portrayal of the arrogant and technologically advanced Jackson Storm adds a new level of tension to the film’s racing scenes.
Direction and Animation: A Fresh Look and Feel
Brian Fee’s direction in Cars 3 brings a revitalizing touch to the franchise. The film’s pacing is well-balanced, blending high-speed racing sequences with heartfelt moments of character development.
The animation, as always with Pixar, is top-notch. The racing scenes are dynamic and visually stunning, showcasing Pixar’s skill in creating detailed and immersive environments. The character designs, especially the new additions to the cast, are fresh and engaging.
Themes: Legacy, Growth, and Mentorship
Cars 3 explores several meaningful themes:
- Legacy and Growth: The film focuses on Lightning McQueen’s struggle to adapt to a new era of racing while grappling with the idea of his own legacy. It emphasizes the importance of growth and adaptation, even for established heroes.
- Mentorship: The relationship between McQueen and Cruz Ramirez highlights the value of mentorship and the impact of supporting and believing in others.
- Self-Discovery: McQueen’s journey of self-discovery underscores the importance of finding one’s place and purpose, regardless of age or experience.
Where to Watch Cars 3 Online
As of 2024, Cars 3 (2017) is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services. Here are the options:
Streaming Services
- Disney+: As part of Disney’s streaming library, Cars 3 is available for streaming on Disney+. Subscribers can enjoy the film in high definition, along with access to other Pixar films and Disney content.
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or own Cars 3, several digital platforms offer these options:
- Apple iTunes: You can rent or purchase Cars 3 on Apple iTunes, with options for HD and Ultra HD viewing. The platform supports all Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the film for rental or purchase, providing various resolution options to suit different devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Cars 3, often with deals or bundles that include other films in the Cars series.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt and Inspiring Addition to the Cars Franchise
Cars 3 (2017) is a heartfelt and inspiring continuation of the beloved Cars franchise. With a compelling story of personal growth, mentorship, and legacy, the film offers both thrilling racing sequences and meaningful character development.
For fans of the Cars series and those seeking an animated film with depth and inspiration, Cars 3 is a must-watch. Its availability on Disney+ and various digital rental platforms ensures that this engaging film can be easily enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
