Movie Review: Disney Gets a Thumbs Up with "Bolt"

By Connect2Mason Writer Emily Culley.

The premise to Bolt is as ridiculous as it sounds: A dog who plays a super hero action fighter on television gets lost in the heart of New York City without his “person” not knowing where he is at all. While lost, Bolt finds what he believes is an evil cat, Mittens, in the alley. He immediately ties Mittens up to the other end of his leash and demands that she take him to his person, Penny.

The director of Bolt's high action television drama believes that the focus of the show is within Bolt's emotions. In order for the audience to believe in the program, Bolt has to believe that he is chasing evil villains. Therefore, the director has gone to extra lengths to ensure that Bolt has no idea that his powers and skills are not real.

When he and Mittens are searching the east coast for Penny, Bolt learns that his super hero powers no longer work properly. Bolt uses his power of analysis to conclude that a tricky chemical, known as “styrofoam”, drains his powers. And yes, this is just the beginning of a wonderfully woven ridiculous plot line that is sure to leave most everyone in laughter for hours to come after the movie.

Just as Bolt is beginning to doubt himself, him and Mittens cross paths with a television junkie hamster who encourages Bolt's disillusions about reality and his “super powers.” As the trio sets off on their adventure, they encounter real and fake dangers. As par for Disney, these dangers are tied together with love, caring, and a heartwarming message.

What makes these ridiculous plot lines work is the level of freshness that is brought to the screen. The way the animals interact, think, and are completely adorable. Bolt, an unknowingly spoiled dog, comes across some of the most natural and common issues—such as hunger and minor cuts on the paws. Bolt's reactions to these “new” bodily occurrences are what steals the movie.

For the first time in a very long time Disney has created a movie that both adults and children are able to enjoy, laugh, and forget about the tedious side of life. The only downside about Bolt is the 3-D effects. While wearing the 3-D glasses in and out of the theater make for a much more enjoyable experience, the overall effect of the 3-D animation is not worth the extra ticket cost. Save your money and see it in the regular digital form.

Grade: A.