FINDING NEMO 3D

Since ‘Avatar’ proved that there was money to be made in 3D cinema, studios have been scrambling over themselves to get as much 3D content into theatres as possible. In most cases, this resulted in hurried and badly-conceived post-conversion of uninteresting action films, but in perhaps the smartest move by a studio since this format took off, Disney has consistently turned to their back catalogue with tremendous critical and financial success. Their conversion of ‘The Lion King’ was a massive hit, and ‘Beauty and the Beast’ might be the most beautiful 3D film yet. As well as their traditional classics, their partnership with Pixar resulted in the conversion of the original ‘Toy Story’ films, and now they continue that venture with ‘Finding Nemo’, one of the most financially and critically successful animated films ever made.

There isn’t much left to say about ‘Nemo’, arguably Pixar’s first masterpiece. This simple story of a a clownfish trying to find his lost son is filled with rich characters and rich visuals, executed to perfection by then first-time director Andrew Stanton. It was the first Pixar film to secure the Best Animated Film Oscar and their biggest box-office success, as well as the most successful animated film of all time at that point. Superlatives cannot do it justice - there is a tenderness to ‘Nemo’, a refusal to talk down to its young audience, a fearlessness in the face of difficult and serious themes that has become a defining characteristic of Pixar’s storytelling. The voice cast is exceptional, filled with the most unexpected talent, but none that detract from the storytelling, with Ellen Degeneres delivering one of the finest vocal performances in an animated film, as the lovable and tragic Dory, cursed with short-term memory. Her contribution was so significant, that there was even discussion around her receiving an Oscar nomination. ‘Nemo’ is one of those rare examples of a perfect piece of filmmaking, storytelling and artistry demonstrating just how effective and affecting cinema can be.