Finding Dory

It is commonly accepted that sequels do not always live up to their predecessors’ former glory, yet for Pixar this does not seem to apply. Andrew Stanton’s Finding Dory makes a splash as a warm, wistful yet raucously entertaining follow-up to Finding Nemo, revealing fresh new characters as well as re-introducing old ones, who are welcomed with open arms.

It’s hide-and-seek with Dory this time around as she, Marlin and Nemo travel 7,000 miles across the Pacific to find her family, whom she had (of course) forgotten. Dory is not only lost in the physical sense but also mentally as well, where the task of dealing with her short-term memory ailment affects her sense of self and emotional wellbeing.

This is where the combination of both an intelligent, touching script and equally masterful filmmaking ensures the film appeals to all age groups. For the younger generation it’s a fun-packed, kooky adventure story with likeable characters and goofy humour, and to its adult audience it is so much more: a tale about acceptance, not just of others but also of oneself, and the discovery that your flaws may well be your greatest feature.

Finding Dory is not only a beautiful film in terms of its content, but it is aesthetically very appealing as well. Animation has come a long way, and this film is a perfect illustration of how well it has advanced, the breathtaking visuals and glorious mix of vivid, ocean-bright colours bringing the narrative to life with the most dazzling quality. This, combined with well-rounded characters and an emotional rollercoaster of a script, makes for a feature that is a cut above the rest.

Whilst there are a few moments that seem almost too familiar, overall, this is a magnificent masterpiece that sees one of cinema’s most loved sidekicks gain well-deserved lime light.

Profoundly moving and always charming, make sure you find Dory at your nearest cinema this summer.

Chloe Sizer 

Finding Dory is released nationwide on 29^th July 2016.

Watch the trailer for Finding Dory here: