[7]

Pixar has an uncanny way of dressing up an old familiar formula and making it seem brand new. Cars is a story about life in the fast lane (literally and figuratively), and the dangers of forgetting to smell the flowers and cherish all the little things. It could so easily have been cloying and cheap, but Pixar puts so much genuine emotion and sincerity into their work, that you feel like you’re learning these life lessons for the very first time. Of course, it helps that much of the movie’s philosophy is expoused by the venerable Paul Newman. The voice cast also includes Owen Wilson, Bonnie Hunt, Tony Shalhoub, Cheech Marin, and Larry the Cable Guy — all of whom are used very well. I wasn’t expecting to like Cars much, but I should have known better. Pixar always delivers the goods.

Oscar Nominations: Best Animated Feature, Best Song