BOLT: REVIEW
In what
is being described as a return to form for Walt Disney animation studios, it becomes
a rather accurate statement during this highly energetic and fun adventure. 'Bolt',
voiced by John Travolta, is a computer animated mutt who constantly defends his
beloved owner Penny (Miley Cyrus), from the evil forces of Dr. Calico (Malcolm
McDowell). Bolt is a fearless super pooch who thinks nothing of leaping over helicopters,
dangling from speeding locomotives and even shoots laser beams from his eyes.
Or at least he thinks he does.
Bolt is not aware that his powers
are false - an elaborate Hollywood trick to get the best out of their reality
dog. He's part of a television show - it's like the 'Truman Show' with four legs
and paws. But ratings are falling and the network claim the target audience are
getting bored. Producers stage a cliff-hanger where the sinister Doc actually
does capture Penny - only from within his cage, Bolt thinks he's seeing a legitimate
incident.
He busts out and somehow (don't ask), in a cargo
train bound for New York. Some 3000 miles later, Bolt has to journey home. Enlisting
the help from his No.1 fan, a hamster in a bubble, they head off on the long road
home to 'rescue' Penny.
The film's action is top notch with
a brilliant opening sequence to get things rolling. Filmed originally in 3D for
the ever popular revival, the quality of the colourful animation is still outstanding
in the non 3D version playing in most cinemas.
With a fast
moving multilayered plot that ventures into various territories of embracing loyalty,
friendship and importance of family, it contains some good character development
unlike the average kid flick. There are a lot of very funny situations too, especially
with the confident but mini Hampster. "Lets save Penny' is his upbeat motto
to try and impress his hero and new partner Bolt.
The voice
cast are all on the mark too, while fans of soapy 'Bold and the Beautiful' may
recognise the voice of the not so evil Dr. Forrester, it's Ron Moss and in this
case he's even more animated than as Ridge on the popular serial.
With
enough in-jokes for the adults and the element of entertainment fully realised
by a cracking pace, you can't go past taking the whole family to see 'Bolt' during
this school holidays.
Shane A. Bassett
