When it comes to the villainous, evil and all-round anti-heroic, not all bad guys are created equal. Some relish the wicked spoils of their role, others merely play their part. The eponymous video game character Wreck-It Ralph definitely falls into the latter category.
For 30 years, the large but lovable Ralph (John C. Reilly, Carnage) has fulfilled his iniquitous responsibilities, even though they are at odds with his kind personality. In the fictitious arcade game Fix-It Felix Jr, he wreaks havoc so that the noble Felix (Jack McBrayer, TV’s 30 Rock) can come to the rescue. After three decades and no fanfare, however, Ralph begins to struggle with his purpose. Tired of being disliked for simply doing his job, he determines to be seen in a different light.
Ralph’s escape drives the narrative of Wreck-It Ralph, the first feature from Emmy-winning The Simpsons and Futurama director Rich Moore. Delving inside the gaming world, it constructs a loving tribute as the lumbering bad guy journeys between games old and new. In high-definition first-person shooter Hero’s Duty, he attempts to steal his way to greater acclaim under the watchful eye of General Calhoun (Jane Lynch, Glee). Alas, his efforts unravel in the Mario Kart-inspired Sugar Rush, courtesy of the intervention of troublesome tyke Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman, Take This Waltz).
Moore’s solid background in character-driven animation shows in the charming but clever script by Jennifer Lee (the forthcoming Frozen) and Phil Johnston (Cedar Rapids) – based on a story by Johnston, Moore and Jim Reardon (WALL-E) – and the film’s colourful, chaotic imagery. At no point do the thematic or visual concepts devalue the tender tale and endearing protagonists, or take the easy rather than earned route. Instead, the movie champions sharp, shrewd interplay while exploring a popular subculture. Heart-warming, honest relationships are also cultivated, even as the film capitalises upon a carefully-measured dose of nostalgia.
In the vein of beloved classic The Goonies, the film unspools as part comedy, part epic adventure that’s sure to resonate with all viewers. Taking its lead from Pixar’s best, the action is thrilling without overtaking the emotion. Few films can perfect that balance, or contemplate the impact of stereotypes while entertaining audiences of all ages. Wreck-It Ralph not only achieves both, but also provides sweetness and a 3D spectacle, all in a winning, warm and witty guaranteed new family favourite.
Rating: 4
Wreck-It Ralph
Director: Rich Moore
USA, 2012, 101 min
In cinemas December 26
Advance screenings this weekend
Distributor: Disney
Rated PG
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