Pen to Paper

Speed Racer is a live-action cartoon.

This summarizes the movie, why I liked it, why many reviewers disliked it, and why I don’t think it will do as well as it should.

For some reason, American audiences are (on the whole) uncomfortable with the idea of cartoons for adults.  The mixed success of shows such as Family Guy, Futurama, and South Park demonstrate this.  I’m afraid that Speed Racer’s PG rating combined with its stylistic choices will keep away viewers who would enjoy the movie, if they gave it a chance.

The movie succeeds on many levels.  The action sequences are spectacular, from wild over-the-top car races in a variety of environments to hand-to-hand fights.  There are plenty of funny bits, many revolving around the youngest Racer and his pet chimp.  The emotional highs and lows are compelling — I celebrated the wins and teared up at the sad bits.  Some of the characters are a little flat, but the main actors (particularly Emile Hirsch and John Goodman) bring their A-game and present well-rounded and interesting performances.  I’ve already commented on the style a bit, but the Wachowskis use all of a cartoonist’s tool box to tell an emotionally charged and action packed story.

Thinking back, I’m reminded of another 2008 movie — Cloverfield.  In both cases, the directors made daring stylistic choices that alienated much of their potential audience.  It’s not too late for Speed Racer, though.  If you or your inner child still loves cartoons, I highly recommend this movie.