movie review of big hero 6

I know I am part of an infinitesimal minority, but I wish Hollywood would consider a one-year moratorium on superhero films. Between all the origin stories, the sequels, the spinoffs, the spoofs and the too-soon reboots, I have had my fill of big-name actors in ridiculous outfits allowing their stunt doubles or digital stand-ins to save the world.

When even a Denzel Washington action flick like “ The Equalizer ” plays like a start-up entry in a comic-book franchise, matters are getting out of hand.

Of course, such a break in the crash-boom action would at this point probably cause the ruination of the movie business as we know it. No less than 24 new titles are slated for the next six years. Studios might be forced to come up with some fresh ideas that aren’t already known quantities pre-packaged as a brand. That is, once they run out of YA novels to adapt for the screen.

Which is why I was chagrined to learn that Disney, which has been nicely re-establishing itself as animation powerhouse beyond its Pixar label after the success of “ Wreck-It Ralph ” and “ Frozen ,” was digging into the Marvel vault for toon-worthy material.

As a result, my expectations were low for “ Big Hero 6,” based on an obscure comic book with a Japanese manga sensibility that introduces yet another makeshift gang of warriors. In other words, the dreaded origin story.

Much to my surprise, it didn’t take long to warm to this tale set in the gleaming near-futuristic metropolis known as San Fransokyo where trolley cars and an Asian-infused Golden Gate Bridge happily co-exist with dumpling emporiums and Tokyo-inspired skyscrapers. And how could I resist when, early on, a kick-ass gal is heard commanding a guy to “Stop whining! Woman up!” 

I also was taken from the outset by the 14-year-old hero actually named Hiro (engagingly voiced by Ryan Potter ), an overly cocky punk who already has his high-school diploma. He is right on trend with other troubled misfit geniuses in films this fall including those in “The Imitation Game” and “The Theory of Everything.” Initially, the scrawny lad invests his smarts into winning back-alley robot fights with deceptively simple electronic toys of his own design.

But after Hiro has a brush with the law, older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) invites him to check out his college’s robotics lab with thoughts of enrolling. There he meets an A-team of tech specialists: adrenaline junkie Go Go Tomago ( Jamie Chung , the source of the above ”Woman up!” remark); upbeat chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez); cautious neat-freak Wasabi ( Damon Wayans Jr.); and fanboy sidekick Fred, a sort of nerd answer Scooby-Doo pal Shaggy (T.J. Miller of TV’s “Silicon Valley,” whose humorous asides fall flat as often as they tickle).

Thanks to a nifty science project involving microbots, Hiro is accepted at the school. Then tragedy strikes after a fire traps and kills both Tadashi and Prof. Callaghan ( James Cromwell ), who was going to be Hiro’s mentor. With no parents and his brother gone, Hiro retreats into his bedroom in the apartment above a coffee shop run by his worrywart Aunt Cass ( Maya Rudolph ). 

“ Big Hero 6” truly achieves liftoff, however, when Hiro happens upon Baymax, Tadashi’s invention, who is the perfect fill-in as a big brother. A really big brother who is so viscerally huggable, you can practically squish him with your eyes. Imagine a white 10-foot-tall inflatable robot programmed to tend to the sick who is a cross between the Michelin Man, the Stay Puft marshmallow character from “ Ghostbusters ” and a futon mattress.

A calm in any storm, Baymax is dedicated to easing pain of all sorts and certainly performs that function for a grieving Hiro. He also has a great sense of physical humor not unlike such plus-size comics as John Candy and John Belushi as he gingerly squeezes in and out of tight spots or stumbles about as if drunk when his battery is low. Even his attempt at a fist bump is an ingenious running gag.

However, there is the rest of the plot to deal with and, if you haven’t guessed, Hiro along with a soon souped-up  Baymax and the four lab geeks form a crew of avengers. Their mission is to seek a mysterious Kabuki-mask-wearing baddie suspected of setting the inferno as well as stealing Hiro’s invention. There are sundry loud action sequences but none are as thrilling as the sight of Hiro and a now-aerodynamic Baymax forming a bond similar to that of Hiccup and Toothless in “How to Train Your Dragon” as they soar hither and yon above the urban sprawl.

“ Big Hero 6” becomes increasingly more predictable in its final half hour as it makes a few stabs at a surprise twist or two. This is no “The Incredibles,” Pixar’s dysfunctional-family version of a superhero saga, when it comes to originality. Baymax is great but he’s no Edna Mode.

But “ Big Hero 6” deserves praise for promoting an anti-violence message amid mayhem that–save for the fire–doesn’t physically maim anyone nor involve guns or traditional weapons. An action adventure that puts brain ahead of brawn as a valued commodity is always reason to celebrate. Add in the considerable heart that Baymax contributes (with elements borrowed from both “WALL-E” and “ Up ”), and you have a winner. 

Stay until the very end of the credits if you want to see a reveal about Fred’s parentage. And resist dawdling at the concession stand before being seated because you don’t want to miss a second of “Feast.” This stylized short shot from an ankle-level point of view condenses 12 years in the life of a voracious Boston terrier named Winston. In between greedily gobbling his way through a smorgasbord of table scraps–spaghetti, nachos and pizza–the chow hound manages to stop devouring long enough to play Cupid for his owner. A sprig of parsley never seemed so romantic.

However, as a dog owner myself, I am hoping “Feast” doesn’t end up encouraging children (or adults) to start feeding their own pets such not-good-for-them food as saucy meatballs. Because I doubt that Disney will agree to pick up any resulting cleaning bills. 

Susan Wloszczyna

Susan Wloszczyna spent much of her nearly thirty years at USA TODAY as a senior entertainment reporter. Now unchained from the grind of daily journalism, she is ready to view the world of movies with fresh eyes.

• Ryan Potter as Hiro Hamada (voice)
• T.J. Miller as Fred (voice)
• Jamie Chung as GoGo Tomago (voice)
• Damon Wayans, Jr. as Wasabi (voice)
• Maya Rudolph as Aunt Cass (voice)
• Alan Tudyk as Alistair Krei (voice)
• Daniel Henney as Tadashi Hamada (voice)
• Génesis Rodríguez as Honey Lemon (voice)
• Scott Adsit as Baymax (voice)
• James Cromwell as Professor Robert Callaghan (voice)
• Chris Williams
• Daniel Gerson
• Jordan Roberts
• Robert L. Baird
• Henry Jackman

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• Common Sense Says
• Parents Say 83 Reviews
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Common Sense Media Review

Awesome origin story is action-packed, deals with grief.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Big Hero 6 is an action-packed animated adaptation of the same-titled superhero comic that's likely to attract younger kids as well as tweens/teens who are already fans of the Marvel universe. The movie is an unconventional origin story that focuses on the power of brotherhood,…

Why Age 7+?

A terrible fire kills Tadashi (the main character's beloved older brother) and h

Related merchandise/tie-ins are available in stores: figurines, plush dolls, gam

No overt alcohol or drug use (although adults do consume drinks at a reception),

"Nerd" is used, but mostly in a positive way ("nerd school," "nerd lab," "just a

Any Positive Content?

Very sweet messages about honoring the memory of the departed, recognizing the i

Tadashi is an amazing big brother; he's supportive and loving but also willing t

Kids will learn some scientific terms and ideas about robotics, and they'll be e

Violence & Scariness

A terrible fire kills Tadashi (the main character's beloved older brother) and his professor. Hiro and Tadashi are orphans, so that leaves Hiro with no immediate family except for his guardian, Aunt Cass. Action scenes can be intense and include robot death matches between remote-controlled robots. The masked supervillain (who can be very scary) sends microbots after Hiro and his friends. Hiro reprograms Baymax to "destroy," leading the robot to injure their friends and nearly kill the villain. The villain squares off against the Big Hero Six, all of whom have different super weapons -- but none is a gun. In one scene, it looks like another character is going to sacrifice himself; it's really upsetting to watch.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Related merchandise/tie-ins are available in stores: figurines, plush dolls, games, books, apparel, and more.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

No overt alcohol or drug use (although adults do consume drinks at a reception), but Baymax acts "drunk" when his battery life is depleted.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

"Nerd" is used, but mostly in a positive way ("nerd school," "nerd lab," "just a bunch of nerds").

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Positive Messages

Very sweet messages about honoring the memory of the departed, recognizing the importance of healing, encouraging the furthering of a legacy, seeking justice versus revenge, and surrounding yourself with friends and family when you're going through a tough time. Hiro's grief journey will show kids that getting through tragedy is sad but possible with a little help from those who love you. The movie also stresses education, particularly in science and technology. A bit of "fat" humor centered on Baymax's size and round belly, but it doesn't feel mean spirited. Major themes include empathy, courage, curiosity, and teamwork.

Positive Role Models

Tadashi is an amazing big brother; he's supportive and loving but also willing to steer Hiro in a different direction. And he puts himself in danger to save his beloved professor. Baymax's mission is to help and heal people; his moral code influences other characters in positive ways. Hiro is a genius who genuinely loves and looks up to his brother and his brother's friends. Aunt Cass loves her nephews dearly and wants to be close to them. The lab friends are all smart and there for Hiro after Tadashi dies. The Big Hero 6 includes strong, smart female contributors, and the characters are a diverse group.

Educational Value

Kids will learn some scientific terms and ideas about robotics, and they'll be encouraged to pursue science and technology projects.

Parents need to know that Big Hero 6 is an action-packed animated adaptation of the same-titled superhero comic that's likely to attract younger kids as well as tweens/teens who are already fans of the Marvel universe. The movie is an unconventional origin story that focuses on the power of brotherhood, friendship, and using your gifts to help others. The main group of kids includes strong, smart female contributors. One of the film's main themes is about coping with grief, as the main character's beloved older brother (his only immediate family) tragically dies early in the film; Hiro's sadness may be hard for sensitive kids. Another near death is very upsetting, and there are sometimes-intense confrontations between the movie's scary supervillain and the protagonists that injure but don't kill people. On the other hand, the central robot, Baymax, was designed to heal not hurt, and his moral code influences other characters in positive ways. With its refreshingly diverse cast and uplifting message, Big Hero 6 is a captivating adventure story for the entire family. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

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Parent and Kid Reviews

• Parents say (83)
• Kids say (186)

Based on 83 parent reviews

Surprisingly GREAT

Great movie, what's the story.

BIG HERO 6 is Disney's adaptation of the same-named Marvel comic. Set in the fictional futuristic city of San Fransokyo, the story follows 14-year-old genius Hiro Hamada (voiced by Ryan Potter ), who would rather spend his time fighting robots than going to school -- until his older brother, Tadashi (Daniel Tenney), shows him the marvels of his university's robotics lab, where he and his friends work on amazing projects under the tutelage of department chair Professor Callaghan ( James Cromwell ). Desperate to get into the program, Hiro invents microbots that can be controlled telepathically -- an invention so impressive that he's immediately accepted into the university. But just as Hiro and Tadashi are about to celebrate, a fire breaks out in the exhibit hall, killing Tadashi. All that's left of him is his inflatable robot Baymax ( Scott Adsit ), a cuddly "personal health companion" designed to help heal people. When Hiro discovers that his microbots weren't destroyed in the fire but are instead being controlled by a masked villain, he enlists Baymax and Tadashi's best friends -- Wasabi ( Damon Wayans Jr. ), Honey Lemon ( Genesis Rodriguez ), GoGo ( Jamie Chung ), and Fred ( T.J. Miller ) -- to find the masked man, who must be responsible for the fire that took his beloved brother's life.

Is It Any Good?

This is precisely the kind of family film that will charm little kids, teens, and even child-free adults. What Frozen was to sisterhood, Big Hero 6 is to brotherhood. Even though Hiro and Tadashi don't get the happily ever after that Anna and Elsa enjoy, this is still a story about the power of brotherly love, encouragement, and support. As the adorably wise Baymax explains to Hiro, Tadashi is still with him, even if not physically. Baymax is the movie's most unique character; he's part Mary Poppins, part Groot, all huggable marshmallowy goodness and love -- the perfect companion to broody young Hiro's jaded sense of doom about a world in which someone you love can be gone in a flash.

It's no surprise that with Marvel and Disney teaming up for this adventure, the result is a bit of Avengers -lite. The proudly nerdy ensemble includes GoGo, a feisty feminist who says "Woman up!" instead of "Man up"; gentle foodie Wasabi; perky-in-pink Honey Lemon; and comics-loving Fred, who's not a scientist himself but loves to hang out with the gang. They're all memorable supporting characters, but in the end the strength of this movie is the Hamada brothers and Baymax, who's impossible not to love. Whether he's diagnosing Hiro's problem as "puberty" or risking his life for Hiro, Baymax (and Tadashi, who created him) is the undeniable hero of Big Hero 6 . You'll definitely want to see the Big Hero 6 save the day again.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about how Big Hero 6 portrays grieving. Does Hiro's experience seem realistic? Why do we get sad when we see movie characters experiencing painful things?

Why do you think so many young movie characters are orphans? What makes Hiro different than the typical pop-culture orphan?

Did the movie make you interested in checking out the comics? For those who've already read the comics, how is the movie different? Did you like the changes the filmmakers made? Which changes were good? Which ones surprised you?

Talk about the popularity of superhero ensemble stories. Do you enjoy superhero groups like this one or Guardians of the Galaxy or The Avengers , or do you prefer solo superhero films? How is this story different from live-action superhero tales? Are they intended for the same audience?

How do the characters in Big Hero 6 demonstrate teamwork and courage ? What about curiosity and empathy ? Why are these important character strengths ?

Movie Details

• In theaters : November 7, 2014
• On DVD or streaming : February 24, 2015
• Cast : Jamie Chung , Genesis Rodriguez , Damon Wayans Jr.
• Directors : Don Hall , Chris Williams
• Inclusion Information : Female actors, Asian actors, Latino actors
• Studio : Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
• Genre : Family and Kids
• Topics : Friendship , Robots
• Character Strengths : Courage , Curiosity , Empathy , Teamwork
• Run time : 102 minutes
• MPAA rating : PG
• MPAA explanation : action and peril, some rude humor, and thematic elements
• Awards : Academy Award , Common Sense Selection , Kids' Choice Award
• Last updated : August 21, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

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Big Hero 6 Reviews

Brimming with fun humor, busy action, and imaginative science, what really wins is the story and Disney picked a winner.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Feb 16, 2024

While a very loose adaptation of the comics, the film presents a fun, scientific approach to superheroics alongside a heartfelt story about coping with loss.

Full Review | Original Score: 4.5/5 | Apr 25, 2023

[It] is an adaptation of a Marvel Comics title but the filmmakers thoroughly transform it into a Disney feature, complete with issues of loss and family at the center of the creation of a student superhero team...

Full Review | Feb 4, 2023

It's enjoyable and, ultimately, harmless in an affectionate way that both younger audiences and their parents will appreciate.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4 | Jul 18, 2022

Big Hero 6 has a soul the one thing thats keeping animated movies human in a world that wants to sell them as product.

Full Review | Feb 11, 2022

The relationship between the boy and his robot is endearing and effectively told.

Full Review | Original Score: 8/10 | Jul 20, 2021

...there's a sentimental heartbeat and some painterly framing which mean this hugely enjoyable romp retains its unique character.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | May 18, 2021

There are set pieces in Big Hero 6 that rival anything from the Marvel imaginations.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | Feb 2, 2021

I'm sure many people, young and old, will go into Big Hero 6 and enjoy themselves. I just wished there was more going on here.

Full Review | Original Score: B | Jul 17, 2020

102 minutes of perpetual amazement that greatly complicated the choice of the best animation film of 2014. [Full Review in Spanish]

Full Review | Apr 15, 2020

There's definitely a little something for everyone in this movie. Humor that both parents and kids can enjoy... a touching story, and action in every turn.

Full Review | Feb 5, 2020

Big Hero 6 is a fun, occasionally brilliant, never boring computer-animated film from Disney.

Full Review | Jan 9, 2020

Soaring with action, adventure, charm, heart, soul and a whole lot of fun - not to mention Baymax, one of the most adorable heroes ever... Big Hero 6 is the new big screen hero!

Full Review | Dec 14, 2019

Big Hero 6 is sweet and stunning and in Baymax, Disney has its new Totoro.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Nov 26, 2019

The oversized and awkward, cute and caring Baymax could easily be the preferred stocking stuffing this Christmas.

Full Review | Aug 5, 2019

Though heart and humour may be ever-present, Big Hero 6's most welcome attribute lies within its gleeful sense of perpetual imagination.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | May 17, 2019

It is, after all, the Baymax show -- and he is cute, cuddly, comedy gold. Fortunately, although Big Hero 6 has various flaws, he's generally on hand to patch them.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/5 | Apr 4, 2019

A really nice entry into the Disney canon.

Full Review | Original Score: 8/10 | Feb 13, 2019

Big Hero 6 may not have the heft of other commentaries on the superhero genre, but it has an emotional heart unlike any other.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Feb 7, 2019

Big Hero 6 will entertain and amuse most, especially if you're a 10-year-old boy, but for me, it's only saving grace was a big, huggable robot.

Full Review | Feb 5, 2019

Previous Story

• Entertainment
• Movie Review

'Big Hero 6' review: a puffy, lovable robot to the rescue

Disney digs into marvel's vault to bring us a family-friendly superhero film.

• By Josh Lowensohn
• on November 6, 2014 07:20 pm

Iron Man is not in this movie. We should get that out of the way right up front. But if you liked Iron Man , and the idea that someone can create wondrous and deadly things with technology appeals to you, then you might like Big Hero 6 . This is a story about robots big and small, but it’s also one about friendship, loss, and trying to fix things that cannot always be mended. It manages to deliver in most of those areas with humor and without being preachy. And yes, there’s a big, rubbery robot that can fly.

This is the first Disney Animation Studios film to make use of the Marvel universe since Disney snapped it up for $4 billion five years ago, but it exists in a strange realm that has nothing else to do with other Marvel worlds or characters (like Tony Stark). Instead, we have San Fransokyo, a vibrant amalgam of San Francisco and Tokyo. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge, for instance, has been mixed up to look like it’s part pagoda. Disney has been equally creative with its source material. Big Hero 6 is the namesake of an obscure Marvel comic book series, though the film, which is directed by Don Hall (director of 2011's Winnie the Pooh ) and Chris Williams (who directed 2008's Bolt ), diverges from that mythology. Some of the characters are the same, but have different abilities and backstories, making this film original in its own right. That’s not to say it doesn't follow many of the same superhero movie tropes, which makes it a good primer for filmgoers who may be too young to see something like The Avengers . And to be perfectly clear, this film is largely aimed at kids, though like many other Disney films it’s something adults will enjoy.

People in San Fransokyo fight robots for money, and the main character, Hiro Hamada, has built one so good it makes short work of its opponents, ripping them limb from limb. But his older brother Tadashi wants Hiro to leave behind the seedy alleys of the city to come join him at the San Fransokyo Institute of Technology. Part of his pitch involves showing him Baymax, a large, white inflatable robot that Tadashi invented to serve as a portable doctor. Realizing he could be building similar projects, Hiro decides he wants in.

But for Hiro, it’s not as simple as writing an essay about his summer vacation to get into this college. The university requires him to come up with something to wow the program’s professor. Hiro’s answer are tiny robots that can be controlled by thought. Hiro believes that the microbots could be useful for things like transportation and construction, and his demonstration of those possibilities is one of the film’s most memorable scenes. That demo sets off a bidding war between people who want to develop the technology commercially, and those who want it for science.

The movie escalates from there, introducing a masked man named Yokai, our antagonist and genuinely one of the scariest villains to grace a Disney film in years. Donned in black and wearing a white kabuki mask, Yokai's stolen Hiro's microbots, and produces a seemingly never-ending sea of them that he wields (often poorly) as weapons. With the help of Baymax, and several students, Hiro forms a rag-tag group to face Yokai, each of them using technology they’ve cooked up in the university’s labs to give themselves unique powers.

There are easy comparisons here with The Avengers , though the other group members are mostly forgettable, with the exception of Fred (voiced by Silicon Valley ’s T.J. Miller), a slacker whose super suit is a large green monster. Baymax (voiced by 30 Rock ’s Scott Adsit), on the other hand, steals the movie. Tadashi programmed him to be a caregiver that won’t stop until his patient is satisfied, an attribute that crops up in the worst situations. Baymax’s transformation from the seemingly drunken balloon who has trouble climbing a set of stairs to a nearly indestructible flying machine is also great fun to watch. As is the burgeoning friendship between Baymax and Hiro, which succeeds in exploring the odd camaraderie that could exist between a human and a robot. It harkens back to 1996’s The Iron Giant , though San Fransokyo residents are seemingly unfazed about seeing Baymax walk around their streets, unlike the people in that film.

On that note, Disney has made much ado about its efforts to make San Fransokyo a living, breathing city, though it never fully comes alive. While the two cities have been mashed up architecturally, there is a still a homogenized feeling about its residents, who take turns bustling through crowded sidewalks and disappearing completely when scenes might work better without them. That’s fine, but it feels like a missed opportunity. Disney should be applauded for the look though, which is a gorgeous world filled with rolling hills, gleaming skyscrapers, and a glow of neon that seeps through the fog.

The film introduces a number of ideas that don't necessarily move the superhero movie genre forward, but do convey some genuinely good ideas about technology, morality, and ambition. In this vision of the near future, you can build things like microbots in your garage, which really doesn't seem that far off anymore. There may not be deep questions about whether self-aware robots should be treated like people, but there are questions about what they should be used for. And we instantly know why someone would aspire to create an adorable healing robot.

Big Hero 6 is ultimately enjoyable but it can be frustrating. If you’re expecting city-destroying robot fights the likes of Transformers , you won’t find them here. And likewise if you’re looking for some real chemistry and believable friendships between a group of unlikely heroes, that’s not quite here either. Where Big Hero 6 succeeds, and succeeds big, is in the friendship between Hiro and Baymax. They’re an odd couple and their relationship explores the need for companionship. That Disney manages to pull that off with an inflatable talking robot is better than any special effects you’ll see on screen.

Big Hero 6 opens up in theaters Friday, November 7th.

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Movie Review: Big Hero 6 (2014)

• Aaron Leggo
• Movie Reviews
• 4 responses
• --> November 15, 2014

Perhaps there’s irony in the fact that it took Disney buying Pixar, sucking the animation giant into the maw of the even bigger animation giant, to jump start the studio’s feature animation production and give it the creative spark that once gave Pixar an arm up on its now parent company. Or perhaps it’s just simple math. When Pixar mastermind John Lasseter was added to the official Disney fold and began spearheading the animation branch, Walt’s beloved brand started revving up just as Pixar was slowing down.

Now, with multiple quality works in a row, including last year’s brilliantly revisionist princess pic “ Frozen ,” Disney feature animation is looking stronger than it has in nearly two decades. Their latest success clearly speaks to the impact of the company’s voracious appetite for other entertainment entities, as the cute, beautiful Big Hero 6 is a direct result of Disney’s Marvel purchase. With that connection, the movie is expectedly a superhero action flick, but other than the sub-genre and pilfered title, this is a genuine Disney experience through and through.

Using sumptuous animation to tell a tale of a kid who learns a valuable life lesson after being struck with horrible tragedy, Big Hero 6 is possessed of a big huggable heart. That heart beats sweetly in all facets of the story, but it’s personified (or, er, robot-ified) by squishy nylon nurse bot Baymax (memorably voiced by Scott Adsit). The creation of protagonist Hiro’s (Ryan Potter) big brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney), Baymax is destined to be a star with his innocent line deliveries, slow, waddling gait, and adorable appearance. He’s the quintessential Disney invention, an imaginatively designed creature with such soul that everyone in the audience will want to befriend him.

This is exactly what directors Chris Williams and Don Hall are banking on, of course, because much of their movie hinges on the budding relationship between Hiro and Baymax in what amounts to a sort of animated E.T. It’s easy to get on board with Hiro’s arc in this regard, because who wouldn’t want to go on adventures with a robot pal like Baymax? Williams and Hall smartly tap into that joyous pleasure center where the adventure is bouncily exciting, but they’re also keen to keep the focus on the dramatic meat of the story, so Hiro’s pursuit of the movie’s masked villain is driven by touching emotions and a rather stirring look at love and loss.

Even the antagonist is driven by love, so the theme has a special two-way significance. Everyone has meaningful, relatable motivation and so while the plot twists of Big Hero 6 are hardly its strong point, the hero/villain dynamic still leads to some interesting places as Williams and Hall tackle big subjects like the responsibility of wielding power and the importance of effectively applying great intelligence. Hiro is a boy genius, after all, and Baymax is the work of another genius, so the use of smarts and the specific tug-of-war between harnessing one’s big brain and the technological advancements that follow to help yourself and doing so to help others as a whole is a large part of what Big Hero 6 is concerned with.

Hiro learns his lesson through the added help of his brother’s equally brainy university classmates, a quartet of quirky characters that bring attitude and comic relief to the equation. Together, they all form the titular team thanks to the speedy fast-forwarding power of a fun montage sequence. That such a sequence is so dutifully employed here speaks to the movie’s adherence to a familiar formula, but the charm and magic of Big Hero 6 is derived from the tender treatment of these recognizable elements. There’s a heavy dose of classic Disney schmaltz in here that could feel like just another box being ticked off on a checklist, except Williams and Hall give the characters and situations such honest heft that the movie earns its emotions. Such is the great Disney way. Familiar, but fresh.

We’ve seen these pieces before, of course, but thanks to the animators, not quite as exquisitely as this. To call the animation gorgeous is fair in some ways, but it still undersells the visuals here. Disney soars so high with the computer-generated imagery in Big Hero 6 that the very idea of where they can go from here provides an overwhelming question mark. It simply seems that they’ve hit an unsurpassable peak now, achieving a look and feel that appears truly tangible, a world of living, breathing pixels textured and rendered to perfection. It’s another milestone in the studio’s long history of providing exceptionally executed images.

This all amounts to another warm hearted, carefully conceived and awesomely assembled adventure from a group on a roll. The Disney brand is rock solid right now and rightfully so. The studio’s artists have pushed the boundaries once again and while they’ve consistently proven that the sky is the limit for animated expression, the experience of Big Hero 6 is, visually speaking, a little like floating up in the clouds.

Tagged: brothers , comic book adaptation , friends , hero , robot , villain

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'Movie Review: Big Hero 6 (2014)' have 4 comments

November 15, 2014 @ 1:30 pm calzone

Disney did another great job

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November 15, 2014 @ 2:23 pm MasterTonic

Great review Aaron. Does Big Hero 6 take the #1 animated movie of 2014 for you? It supplants the LEGO Movie for me which was my favorite.

November 15, 2014 @ 6:53 pm adamorrison

It made more money than the most hyped movie in the world: Interstellar.

November 16, 2014 @ 3:57 pm General Disdain

There’s a point in here somewhere, yes?

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"the blood starts to drain from your head": top gun: maverick ending's g-force assessed by real fighter pilot, denzel washington & russell crowe's acclaimed gangster movie is coming to netflix this september, big hero 6  combines disney wonder and charm with marvel awe and action to deliver a film that exhibits the best of both studios..

Big Hero 6   transports us to the world of "San Fransokyo," an east-meets-west futuristic city where young Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) and his big brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) spend their days (and nights) inventing advanced robotics. However, where Tadashi works on robots that can help better the world, Hiro squanders his gift hustling for cash in the underground robot fighting circuit. Things change when Tadashi finally manages to inspire Hiro towards a greater goal: attending the robotics university where Tadashi and his four friends (Honey Lemon, Go Go, Wasabi and Fred) hatch brilliant new tech designs in their nerd lab think-tank.

Hiro's presentation to the school (mentally controlled micro-robots) turns out to be a massive hit; but that joy is immediately followed by a harrowing tragedy. With Tadashi gone, Hiro's life takes a downward spiral - that is until he meets Baymax (Scott Adsit), the inflatable health care robot Tadashi created as a companion for Hiro. While attempting to help Hiro overcome his emotional pain, Baymax stumbles onto the plot of a mysterious man in a Kabuki mask, who seems to have stolen Hiro's micro-bot technology. With revenge on his mind, Hiro ropes compassionate Baymax and the think-tank nerds into becoming tech-enhanced vigilantes. However, anger and pain quickly prove to be corrosive motivators for justice, and Hiro realizes (too late?) that he may be leading his new friends to their collective doom.

Marking the first real collaboration between Disney Animation and their Marvel acquisition, Big Hero 6  combines Disney wonder and charm with Marvel awe and action to deliver a film that exhibits the best of both studios - even if that mix isn't yet as refined as it could be. Still, this film takes an obscure (and strange) comic book and transforms it into something fun and refreshingly different, with loads of mainstream appeal. That's no small accomplishment.

Visually speaking, directors Don Hall ( The Princess and the Frog ) and Chris Williams ( Bolt ) have created the most innovative and sophisticated Disney animated film to date, in terms of production/character design and VFX. From the hair follicles on Hiro's head to the Eastern/Western cultural designs and odes to anime/manga packed into the layout of of San Farnsokyo, Big Hero 6  is a feast for the eyes that outclasses nearly every other animated film to come along in the last few years (including the comparable Incredibles ). With the addition of truly immersive 3D, the film draws viewers into the unique world around them, accenting the level of meticulous detail built into every frame. If given the option, the premium ticket price is worth it.

The action sequences are also pretty well in tune with live-action Marvel superhero movies, offering some great battles, chase sequences, and innovative use of tech weaponry that is refreshing to experience in the imaginative freedom of animation. There is a also some great visual and physical comedy - the latter of which is almost entirely mined from the Baymax character and his unique (but hilariously effective) body design. On a directorial level, the film is a strong achievement - especially when it effortlessly oscillates between action-adventure, comedy and more heartfelt character drama.

...To be fair, though, it is actually the character drama that turns out to be the only real weak point in the film. The script had many cooks ( Monsters, Inc./Monsters University writers Daniel Gerson and Robert L. Baird; Frozen story writer Paul Briggs; Tangled story artist Joseph Mateo; March of the Penguins writer Jordan Roberts and Don Hall himself), and the result is a lot of inspired narrative turns and gags offered in episodic increments. While each "episode" of the film's story is entertaining in its own right, what's missing from the bigger picture is a consistent thread of development that deepens and enriches the narrative as the characters progress through it.

Sure, we see Hiro and Baymax up to several episodes of hijinks; and we see them bonding after things like a first flight or a cliched moment of emotonal conflict between the two; however, somewhere in the superheroic action bits and comedy indulgences the real emotional narrative (Hiro coping with loss) feels much more extraneous and understated than it should. Therefore, when the film tries to go for some deeper emotional resonance in the climatic showdown, we are ultimately left watching the characters' emotions from a distance, rather than being affected by them. Unlike the best of Pixar's work, Big Hero 6 can't quite tug hard enough at the heartstrings to avoid being anything more than high-quality (if not slightly superficial) superhero escapism fun. It's not a huge drawback (most viewers will be happy with simple action/comedy entertainment), but with some more narrative finesse, this film could've been truly exceptional.

Although the movie itself may not be a bonafide Disney classic, the Big Hero 6 team certainly establishes themselves as here-to-stay icons, and leading that charge is no doubt Baymax. Similar to how Frozen made two new Disney princesses permanent additions to the cultural zeitgeist,  Big Hero 6  has created an indelible new character in Baymax, and 30 Rock star Scott Adsit (Pete Hornberger!) proves to be a perfect voice for the lovable inflatable robot. Using his comedic timing and experience, Adsit vocally inspires some memorably enjoyable and lighthearted moments - not to mention more than a few quotables that will surely penetrate pop-culture. (Fist bumping and  "blowing it up" will never be the same...)

The rest of the cast is pretty good - even if their respective characters can't match the lovable appeal of Baymax. Ryan Potter is great at giving Hiro life and personality, as is Daniel Henney at endearing us to Tadashi. Damon Wayans Jr. ( Let's Be Cops ) and T.J. Miller ( Transformers 4 ) have dynamic voices that make Wasabi and Fred fun (and funny) supporting characters; Jamie Chung makes Go Go sound pretty badass ("Woman up!") and it's only the delivery of Genesis Rodriguez ( Casa de Mi Padre ) that sounds a little off (Latin-tinged pronunciation coming out of a blonde valley girl). Even third-tier characters like Hiro's Aunt Cass (Maya Rudolph), robotics scholar Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell) and industrialist Alistair Krei (Alan Tudyk) get quality character actors infusing them with energy and emotion. A pretty great cast all around.

In the end, Big Hero 6 is family fun, action and adventure suited for any age (or gender). As stated, it represents the high potential of mixing Disney with Marvel, while still doing enough of its own thing to offer viewers a fresh journey and interesting characters to meet. No matter what the reception of the film, Baymax is no doubt here to stay - but judging from the final product, the entire Big Hero 6 team has a bright future (and plenty of sequels) ahead.

Big Hero 6 is now playing in theaters everywhere. It is 108 minutes long and is Rated PG for action and peril, some rude humor, and thematic elements.

Want to hear more in-depth discussion of the film? Then listen to our Big Hero 6 episode of the SR Underground Podcast .

Follow us and talk movies @screenrant & @ppnkof .

In Walt Disney Animation Studios' Big Hero 6, the child genius Hiro Hamada works with his brother Tadashi's inflatable robot, Baymax, to assemble a superhero team in the fictional city of San Fransokyo. The titular group of geeky heroes, composed of Honey Lemon, Go Go Tomago, Wasabi, and Fred, help Hiro and Baymax take down a masked villain powered by nanobots.

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Review: In ‘Big Hero 6’ a huggable robo-hero pops up in the future

Betsy Sharkey reviews ‘Big Hero 6’ the new animated movie from Disney. Video by Jason H. Neubert.

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The new animated action-adventure “Big Hero 6” might sound like more of the same Marvel-inspired superhero stuff already saturating movie theaters with its flashy 3-D animation and futuristic nerd kids doing their world saving in bright plastic-plated armor and spiffy Spanx.

Which it might have become, if not for the big guy, the awwww-inspiring Baymax.

This towering, huggable, robotic bag of air and brains steals the show and probably seals a franchise. Baymax, who looks like the love child of the Pillsbury Doughboy and the Michelin Man, also represents another interesting evolution in the kind of animation we can expect from Disney.

Based on a little-known comic pulled from Marvel’s apparently endless vaults, directors Don Hall and Chris Williams create a smart, forward-thinking and yet emotionally old-fashioned world. Like the video-gaming battles in the 2012 Disney hit “Wreck-It Ralph,” “Big Hero 6” is a little edgier, its humor a little grittier and its sensibility very 21st century, setting it on a different path than the studio’s classic fairy tale staples. Screenwriters Robert L. Baird, Daniel Gerson and Jordan Roberts handled the adaptation, expanding and embellishing the origin comic.

The film is very clear about its international influences. It starts with “Big Hero 6’s” pan-Pacific setting, the city of San Fransokyo, a hybrid of San Francisco and Tokyo in landmarks as well as name. It extends through the animation itself, a mash-up of old-school style and Japanese manga. While all the mushing and mixing make for images that seem to leap off the screen, the subtext is that the future will be multicultural and the sensibility pop, so get over it.

Thank Fall Out Boy for some of that snap. Though the band’s new track “Immortals” won’t hit “Frozen’s” chart-crushing “Let It Go” (which for parents may be a blessing), it fits the punk genius at the story’s center, a 14-year-old robotics whiz kid named Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter). It also fuses well with composer Henry Jackman’s (“Captain America: The Winter Soldier”) synth-inflected orchestral score.

The film begins, as so many of these origin stories do, with the parentless boy destined for greatness. At 14, Hiro’s already graduated from high school, but instead of college he’s applying his high-tech savvy to building a better back-alley fighting bot.

He’s got sweet Aunt Cass (Maya Rudolph) making sure there’s a roof over his head and food on the table. But older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney), who spends his days with a smart circle of scientific brainiacs at San Fransokyo Tech, worries that Hiro is headed toward trouble.

Tadashi gets Hiro to tag along to Tech one day to see what he’d miss by skipping college. Between all the gizmos being ginned up and the demonstration of Tadashi’s invention, Baymax, a touchy-feely care-giving medical robot designed to read moods as easily as vitals, the boy wonder starts thinking perhaps there is more to life than street-fighting bots.

Hiro’s bid to be accepted into the prestigious school lies in impressing professor Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell), so he creates a mind-controlled microbot — well, zillions of them, which swirl like magnetized metal shards into whatever the teen telepathically instructs. The microbots can morph into a building, a bridge, and in the wrong hands — perhaps a global robotics mogul like Alistair Krei (Alan Tudyk) — are an unbeatable weapon. They make for some of the film’s best visuals, impossible to pull off without animation that mesmerizes.

To take Hiro from smart boy to superhero, calamity must fall. It does right in the middle of Hiro’s demonstration at an elaborate science fair. As impressive as the morphing microbots are, the explosive destruction of the fair is tailor-made for animators to go crazy, and “Big Hero 6’s” massive crew does.

In the wake of the fair’s ruin, Hiro and Baymax are thrown together to, as all superheroes must, seek justice, unmask villains, solve mysteries. Hiro enlists four of his brother’s friends to help (and to make six big heroes). They include Fred (T.J. Miller), the resident slacker who may be more than he seems; GoGo Tomago (Jamie Chung), sarcasm and spinning wheels are her specialty; Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), kind of a Wolverine with dreads, a paunch and slightly different but no-less-lethal blades; and Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), your basic chemistry chick in short skirts and glasses.

Hiro has all the right stuff to be the leader, while Baymax’s huge hugs carry as much power as his punch. And as comic book mythology demands, these superheroes have their own special attire. Hiro pushes the soft-touch Baymax into a “slimming” new plastic suit that offers power and protection. But inside it Bay loses some of his charm.

That charm is substantial, and should the big boy return for future adventures, Disney might rethink the styling.

While a robot designed to be the ultimate medical caregiver might not sound like the right superhero stuff, from the first time Baymax pops up from his container like an inflatable jack in the box (the real deal, not the fast food franchise namesake), he’s irrepressible and irresistible.

Surprisingly, some of the attraction is Baymax’s synthesized voice. So annoying when it’s a telemarketer, so soothing when Scott Adsit is at the controls. The actor, best known as the droll producer who kept “30 Rock” sane opposite Tina Fey, is able to shift from concern to bone-dry humor in the blink of Bay’s very big eye.

All of the bot’s sweet puffery keeps “Big Hero 6” afloat as it plows into the relatively typical terrain of superhero-villain battles fought with the fate of the world hanging by a thread. Amid all the nerd-inspired firepower that gives the movie much of its flash, the big boy’s droning tone proves to be the film’s stealth weapon, perfect for pulling off highly targeted comic strikes. Pow, pow, kaboom, cuddle. ...

Twitter: @betsysharkey

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‘Big Hero 6’

MPAA rating: PG for action and peril, some rude humor and thematic elements

Running time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Playing: In general release

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Former Los Angeles Times film critic Betsy Sharkey is an award-winning entertainment journalist and bestselling author. She left the newsroom in 2015. In addition to her critical essays and reviews of about 200 films a year for The Times, Sharkey’s weekly movie reviews appeared in newspapers nationally and internationally. Her books include collaborations with Oscar-winning actresses Faye Dunaway on “Looking for Gatsby” and Marlee Matlin on “I’ll Scream Later.” Sharkey holds a degree in journalism and a master’s in communications theory from Texas Christian University.

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Big Hero 6 Review

30 Jan 2015

108 minutes

As the first Walt Disney Animation Studios movie to draw directly from Marvel Comics’ rich history, Big Hero 6 is a thrillingly bright and energetic superhero team origin adventure, brimming with all the high-velocity aerobatic action scenes and neat sci-fi trimmings we’ve come to expect from any live-action Marvel Studios product. Yet its relationship with the Marvel title, a three-issue mini-series concerning a Japanese supergroup (originally led by Silver Samurai, recently found in The Wolverine), doesn’t go far beyond filching character names and broadstrokes concepts.

The film’s Marvelesque ‘catch the mystery villain’ central plot doesn’t kick in until halfway through, prompting a tech-driven supergroup formation so speedy it makes Stark Industries look positively medieval. And while fun-for-the-kids in a Scooby-Doo-meets-Power-Rangers kinda way, it’s not nearly as universally affecting as what lies at the story’s distinctly more-Disney heart: the relationship between 13 year-old whizzkid Hiro (Ryan Potter) and his inherited “healthcare companion”, Baymax (Scott Adsit).

The original Baymax was a “synthetic bodyguard” who could turn into a dragon. The reinvention is a masterclass in character design. Edgeless, rotund and balloony, the movie’s Baymax is the design sweet spot between a bouncy castle and an iPod. His minimalistic face is little more than an emoticon. Couldn’t be simpler, couldn’t be more expressionistic. He walks in a dainty, tippy-toe manner that is both entirely appropriate to his airy girth and also endlessly appealing. As voiced by Adsit, he has a soothing, affable demeanour that makes him instantly and permanently lovable.

It’s in the burgeoning, Iron Giant-style friendship between Baymax and Hiro that we find Big Hero 6’s most humorous and heartwarming moments, especially during the early stages of the film, as the guileless inflatable sidekick with the limitless medical knowledge proves entertainingly incongruous to high-stakes adventure.

Later, Hiro forms the titular group, drawn from his science-nerd chums, pimping and weaponising their own inventions. Baymax is squished into bright-scarlet battle armour and like Neo before him, he learns kung fu in an instant. While there’s huge entertainment in the action scenes that follow, you can’t help feeling that something’s become a little bit lost in the mix. It doesn’t help either that the villain’s motive is highly questionable, while the other members of Big Hero 6 are barely fleshed out beyond their evident merchandising appeal as action figures — with the noted exception of stoner dude Fred (T. J. Miller), whose drawling non sequiturs make him a crowd-pleaser.

Directors Don Hall and Chris Williams, though, revel in their incidentally multicultural setting and the border-blurring hybrid city San Fransokyo is a joyous blend of neon-washed alleyways and Miyazaki-referencing sky turbines, whirring high above the city’s streets. There is also, wedged somewhere in there, a welcome message about the value of not-for-profit scientific research… Even if it does concern laser-blades, monster suits, nanotechnology and big, friendly balloon-bots.

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Big Hero 6 Review

On a scale of one to ten, how would you rate your pain?

Baymax asks this question over and over again throughout Big Hero 6, yielding different responses every time, depending on who he asks and when he asks. For almost any moviegoer of any age, however, the answer will be a big, fat zero — except when the movie wants you to feel some pain. Big Hero 6 is soothing, soulful, and so much fun, easily among the best all-ages movies of 2014.

It takes place in San Fransokyo, a fictional city that’s recognizably San Francisco with Tokyo influences in architecture and technology. It’s clearly a world that’s advanced beyond our own, with floating energy stations hovering across the city, and illegal ‘bot battles unfolding just around the next dark corner.

Big Hero 6 is soothing, soulful, and so much fun, easily among the best all-ages movies of 2014.

Fourteen-year-old super-genius Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) makes annoying amounts of cash at these battles, pool-sharking (bot-sharking?) opponents into horrible submission. But there’s so much more he could be doing with his intellect. He’s already graduated high school, and he’s leaps and bounds more intelligent than older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney), a handsome and courageous young man who isn’t a slouch in the brains department either.

Tadashi wants Hiro to realize his potential, and to that end, he introduces his baby brother to “Nerd School,” the college he attends alongside other brilliant-minded peers. They spend their days experimenting in high-tech laboratories, innovating new technology for the betterment (and amusement) of all mankind. Tadashi’s personal project: Baymax (Scott Adsit), an inflatable healthcare robot. More on him in a minute.

Impressed by the patrons and potential of Nerd School, Hiro decides that he wants in. He creates his greatest invention yet as a form of application: a series of nanobots called “microbots,” operated by a crown-like neurotransmitter that allows the wearer to use the microbots however he or she likes. But shortly after unveiling the new technology, a horrible accident occurs, leaving our hero without his invention — and even worse, with a huge hole in his heart.

The deeply wounded and angry Hiro locks himself away for weeks, refusing visitors, rejecting any and all attempts to pull himself back together. But Baymax doesn’t take “no” for an answer — unless you tell him that you’re “satisfied with your care.”

Sensing the young man’s injuries, both physical and emotional, Baymax springs to life and befriends young Hiro, whether Hiro wants him or not. Together, the two begin a healing process that involves investigating the mystery of the missing microbots, the pursuit of an evil masked man, the formation of a superhero squad, and Hiro learning how to heal himself.

Big Hero 6 is based on a Marvel Comics book, but only barely. It takes its name, plus some characters and cues from the comic book written by Steven T. Seagle and Duncan Rouleau, but little else. It’s not connected to the sprawling Marvel Cinematic Universe, either, but that’s not to say it doesn’t have anything in common with those films. Like the MCU movies, Big Hero 6 dishes out belly-deep laughs alongside high-stakes action and philosophical questions. There’s an obligatory Stan Lee cameo (blink, and you’ll miss it) and the obvious superhero component, too.

Between this movie, Guardians of the Galaxy, and The Avengers , Disney has the superhero team scene on lockdown.

In terms of the super-heroics, Big Hero 6 is breathtaking. The action is incredibly fun and inspired, using San Fransokyo in immensely creative ways. The recognizable San Francisco geography provides the groundwork for some pulse-pounding chase sequences through the city’s rolling hills. The power-sets of each Big Hero 6 hero and villain plays out perfectly on the big-screen, with Disney’s animation team choreographing fights with equal measures of glee and danger.

The superheroes themselves are all standouts, too. Without spoiling too much, Hiro needs his Nerd School friends as he and Baymax get closer and closer to solving the microbot mystery. Each of the friends has their own unique personality quirks and technological interests, which they use to craft their superhero identities. Whether it’s bubbly Honey Lemon (Génesis Rodriguez), fast-wheeling GoGo Tomago (Jamie Chung), razor-sharp Wasabi (Damon Wayans, Jr), kaiju enthusiast Fredzilla (T.J. Miller), or Hiro himself, every Big Hero 6 viewer will walk away with at least one new favorite superhero.

But in all likelihood, everyone’s going to agree on the big star: Baymax. It takes a surprising amount of time before the inflatable, marshmallow-looking robot becomes a big deal in the movie, but once he’s in, holy moly. He’s the best, for every reason, from his soothing voice to his unchanging face (except for one notable moment near the final act), his fart-noise inflation sound effects to his amazing fist-bumps. Baymax is big and huggable, but capable of some serious bad-assery given the right programming and the right circumstances — or even the wrong circumstances, sometimes.

Best of all, though, is that Baymax isn’t a fighter, at least not primarily. He’s a healer. He heals with impromptu (and occasionally inappropriate) medical diagnoses, with laughter, with caring. He’s an incredible friend and an amazing role model for kids, especially compared to so many of the other action heroes and superheroes in theaters right now. With Superman busy breaking necks, and even Captain America wielding guns from time to time, it’s really refreshing to see Baymax as this beacon of light. And lest you think that’s a little too fluffy for your tastes, just wait until you see drunken, low-battery Baymax; any warm-blooded adult can relate.

If there’s a weakness in Big Hero 6 , it’s that the plot is predictable and straightforward. Kids might not figure out some of the key mysteries right away, but pretty much any adult will nail it. But it’s a minor complaint in the face of everything else the movie gets right in terms of characters, themes, and diversity in tone.

Without a doubt, Big Hero 6 is another big win for Disney. Between this movie, Guardians of the Galaxy, and The Avengers franchise, Disney has the superhero team scene on lockdown. If you have kids, Big Hero 6 is a must-see. Even if you don’t, check it out — you’ll learn a thing or two, too.

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In the film’s opening moments, Hae-jun, the detective in question, lands a case involving the mysterious death of a recreational rock climber. The case, in typical noir fashion, leads to Hae-jun crossing paths with Seo-rae (a spellbinding Tang Wei), his victim’s gorgeous but eccentric widow. Perturbed by how disinterested she is in unpacking her abusive husband’s death, Hae-jun begins to tail and spy on Seo-rae, unaware that doing so will only further intensify his attraction to her. As far as noir plots go, this is about as familiar as it gets. With its nods to Hitchcock and lightly self-aware attitude, Decision to Leave makes it clear that it doesn’t mind treading the same narrative terrain as so many of the noir classics that have come before it, either.

At a time when anti-Semitic extremists are storming the U.S Capitol, running for office, and declaring war on Jewish people via social media, it might not be the best time for a movie that expects you to sympathize with Nazis. And yet, that hasn't stopped Operation Seawolf from sailing into theaters and on-demand streaming services this month.

The film, which follows the crew of a German U-boat during the waning days of World War II, casts Dolph Lundgren (Rocky IV) as German war hero Capt. Hans Kessler, who's ordered to lead the Nazis' remaining U-boats on a desperate (and likely fatal) mission to attack the U.S. on its own soil. As he and his crew make their way toward New York City in one final bid to turn the tide of war, Kessler finds himself struggling with both the internal politics of the ship and his own sense of duty as the Third Reich crumbles around him.

Review by Brian Eggert November 9, 2014

An amalgamation of cultures, the futuristic setting of San Fransokyo may stand out more than the entire storyline of Walt Disney Animation Studio’s adventure Big Hero 6 . Based on a lesser-known Marvel Comic, the film’s central metropolis boasts a Golden Gate bridge with temple fans, cherry blossom trees lining its hilly streets, neon lights abound, and wind turbines floating above the fictional city. It’s a wondrous fusion of East-meets-West. Co-directors Don Hall ( Winnie the Pooh ) and Chris Williams ( Bolt ) imbue every frame with some fascinating background detail to keep our eyes occupied. And after being outshined by the adorable animated short Feast —a dog’s-eye-view tale about a pup whose love for food is only outmatched by his affection for his master—that precedes it, Disney’s first animated Marvel property feels perhaps too familiar and only just serviceable in its storytelling.

Nevertheless, there’s plenty to enjoy in this tale of superhero robotics. The story opens on 14-year-old Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter), a robotics prodigy who wastes his talent on mini-robot fights. The whiz kid’s elder brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) convinces him to join his robotics school, but to join Hiro must impress the school’s head, Professor Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell). And when Hiro demonstrates his new invention, a mind-controlled microbot comparable to nanotechnology, he’s welcomed to join. But at his presentation, a devastating fire takes not only his microbots but Tadashi’s life. Fortunately, the three credited screenwriters deal with the subject of Tadashi’s death in such a way that children in the audience will come out without emotional scars. And after Tadashi’s death, Hiro finds his late brother’s balloon-like medical-bot creation, Baymax (Scott Adsit), to assist with the grieving process.

Physically bulbous awkward and slow, Baymax’s personality reminds us of the android Data in early episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation , where his emotional understanding requires development and lots of explanations to get through basic tasks. It’s a common but effective dynamic. But Baymax’s flat voice, robotic responses, and inflatable presence often produce ironic and physical humor. Elsewhere, a dark figure in a kabuki mask has somehow taken control of Hiro’s microbots and has some dastardly plans. Hiro suspects the villain killed Tadashi and stole his microbots, so he wants vengeance. After upgrading Baymax with armor and karate skills to make him a formidable superhero, Hiro enlists Tadashi’s friends for help. Each uses their science know-how to turn themselves into a superhero: wheel bound Go Go Tomago (Jamie Chung); laser-armed goof Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.); chemistry airhead Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez); and stoner-like, dragon-obsessed fanboy Fred (T.J.Miller).

To be sure, Disney has tapped into their Marvel properties in more ways than just adapting the comic source material. The discovery section of the plot cannot help but resemble Tony Stark figuring out his robotic suit of armor in the first Iron Man , nor can the eventual formation of the “Big Hero 6” team and their struggle with teamwork help but recall The Avengers . It’s the interactions between Hiro and the lovable Baymax that make us laugh and pull at the heartstrings, however. One hilarious sequence features the robot with a low battery, which causes him to act drunk. Other adult-centric moments of humor arise as well. And yet, the script is brought down by all-too-common lines like “I know, right?” and “You got this” that are the dullest form of communication in today’s slang. Moreover, rampant predictability sours the plotting. When, early in the film, it’s explained that to shut down the medical-bot Baymax, Hiro must say, “I’m satisfied with my care,” you just know there will be a teary moment in the climax where Hiro will be forced to repeat that line.

Despite common threads running through Big Hero 6 , the city of San Fransokyo remains enthralling and the story diverting enough for disposable entertainment. After The Incredibles and a dozen live-action Avengers-verse movies though, the film can hardly compare. The animation looks sharp, with character designs more cartoony and somewhat generic to reflect the comic book origins. But the busy environments of San Fransokyo are where the audience will lose themselves in the images. The filmmakers employ them to excellent effect in a number of fast-paced chase sequences that showcase a diverse array of surroundings. Still, the film’s cultural mashup and accessible story are bound to create a huge worldwide hit for Disney, and why not? It’s enjoyable and, ultimately, harmless in an affectionate way that both younger audiences and their parents will appreciate.

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• DVD & Streaming
• Action/Adventure , Animation , Comedy , Drama , Kids , Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Content Caution

In Theaters

• November 7, 2014
• Voices of Ryan Potter as Hiro Hamada; Scott Adsit as Baymax; Jamie Chung as Go Go Tomago: T.J. Miller as Fred; Genesis Rodriguez as Honey Lemon; Damon Wayans Jr. as Wasabi; James Cromwell as Professor Robert Callaghan

Home Release Date

• February 24, 2015

Distributor

• Walt Disney

Movie Review

Hiro Hamada is a pretty brainy kid. He’s only 14 and already a high school graduate. But his big brother Tadashi still isn’t sure Hiro’s really living up to his full potential. All the teen’s been doing lately is spending time entering homemade robots in back-alley battle-bot tourneys.

He needs to go to college! He needs to do more with his big brain! So Tadashi (they lost their parents years earlier) takes Hiro to the University of San Fransokyo science lab to get him interested in “real” science. It works. For a while. But then Tadashi is killed in a fiery accident, and Hiro withdraws into grief and depression.

Now it’s up to Tadashi’s invention—an inflatable, balloon-like, health care robot named Baymax—to bring Hiro back to life. And when Baymax indirectly helps prove that Tadashi’s death wasn’t so much an accident as the result of a nefarious plot, Hiro is spurred into action.

He starts out by giving Baymax some crime-fighting upgrades. Then he gathers together some of Tadashi’s former science whiz-kid friends for a little heroic backup. And together they all set out to vanquish evil everywhere as a brand-new superhero team called … Big Hero 6!

Positive Elements

Doing all you can to help others is a prominent theme that runs throughout this film. Tadashi takes the lead, saving his little brother from a gang of thugs and inspiring him to look at problems from a new angle. When he hears that somebody’s trapped in a burning building, he says, “Someone has to help!” And he charges in—losing his life in the process. Eventually, Hiro learns what it takes to make that same kind of self-sacrificial choice.

Hiro’s new friends—Go Go, Wasabi, Honey Lemon and Fred—all step up to help, too. And it’s Baymax who actually calls them in to buoy Hiro’s spirits. Baymax looks like a marshmallow man dreamed up by a balloon-animal sculptor. He’s “non-threatening and huggable,” Tadashi said. He can diagnose diseases and perform over 10,000 medical procedures. And he clearly reflects his creator’s ethos, evaluating Hiro’s vitals and doing whatever he can to set the boy on a healthy path. As Tadashi programmed him, Baymax is a character of great sensitivity and purity. “They could potentially save thousands of lives,” Tadashi says of his invention. In that vein, whenever Hiro is in danger of physical or emotional harm, the robot quickly uses his own body to warm and/or shield the boy. (Baymax later saves the entire Big Hero 6 team.) In fact, Baymax will only power down and stop his relentless quest of healing and protection when he hears the words, “I am satisfied with my care.”

It’s only when Hiro tinkers with Baymax’s programming that the super-inflatable sidekick becomes more focused on harming than healing. But all of Hiro’s friends instantly recognize that the change is negative and wrong. And they tell the teen so. [ Spoiler Warning ] Eventually Hiro realizes that to change the robot would be to cheapen and mar everything his brother intended. And to use the cuddly invention for violent revenge would be criminal. Near the end of the film we find out that the story’s villain was seeking revenge as well. And even he comes to see the folly of that course.

“Seatbelts save lives,” Baymax reports during a car chase. Fred laments not being able to spend much time with his dad while growing up.

Spiritual Elements

During Tadashi’s funeral, we see little makeshift altars festooned with candles and pictures.

Sexual & romantic Content

One time when Baymax scans Hiro, the robot believes the boy’s angst might be inflamed by his oncoming puberty. So he kindly begins explaining hormonal changes (body hair) and physical “urges” … before Hiro quickly changes the topic.

Violent Content

The “superhero” side of this animated pic opens the door to moments of peril. A kabuki-masked baddie uses millions of tiny robots to destroy streets, building fronts and vehicles. He smashes them into the ground and surrounding scenery with gigantic hammer-like force while chasing after our fleeing friends. And he uses the bots to create structures that suck an entire skyscraper and some surrounding cityscape, piece by piece, into another dimension.

After a frantic car chase, Hiro and his pals drive off a pier and are trapped inside the car as it sinks in the ocean depths. (They all fear they’ll drown before Baymax saves them.) In their turn, the Big Hero 6 team members use their skills—Go Go throws electromagnetic discs, Wasabi slashes with glove-mounted lasers, Fred breathes fire from his rubber Kaiju suit), Honey Lemon throws balls of combined chemicals, and Baymax shoots his rocket-powered glove—to create quite a bit of destruction. (Their actions are mostly defensive in intent.)

When Hiro reprograms Baymax and orders him to “kill” the kabuki baddie, things get pretty serious from the team’s point of view. Baymax’s eyes turn fiery red and he starts blasting and smashing at the villain with deadly intent. (It’s only when the rest of the team holds the robot back that they’re able to remove Hiro’s wrongheaded revenge-driven programming.) A huge fire is deliberately set and reportedly kills two people. At one point we believe Baymax has given up his “life” to save someone.

Crude or Profane Language

Someone is called a “bonehead,” and there is one use each of “darn” and “oh my gosh!” Fred calls out, “Holy Mother of Megazon!”

Drug and Alcohol Content

A low battery charge causes Baymax to act as if drunk, staggering around and slurring his words.

Other noteworthy Elements

In the midst of all the Baymax activity, Hiro lies several times to his unsuspecting Aunt Cass. Hiro’s “prize money” for winning the underground bot battles is actually gambling profits. (He and Tadashi are arrested for participating.) Fred talks about wearing his underwear six days in a row.

Which of the following statements is true?

Big Hero 6 is:

1) A Marvel superhero team origins story.

2) A lesson-filled Disney tale about a lonely, parentless kid and his robot friend.

3) A city-destroying Avengers -style adventure.

4) An anime-lite art project.

5) All of the above.

Uh-huh, even though the movie’s trailers may have given you the impression that this is primarily a Disney-ish tale about an action-crazed kid and his balloon stand-in robot pal, the real answer is 5) All of the above.

Based very loosely on an obscure Marvel superhero series that mixes a Japanese manga story with an American comic book presentation, Big Hero 6 is a mélange of cultures, story styles and animation approaches. From the opening scenes in the future/fantasy city of San Fransokyo (a visually impressive combination of San Francisco and Tokyo), this pic quickly differentiates itself from  Frozen and  Toy Story and even your typical Marvel superhero feature.

Yes, it tells the tale of a group of science geeks who use their gifts to battle evil in a city-crunching finale. But it consistently delivers the sense that there’s more at play than that. It’s less about powered-up whiz-bang and more about “somebody has to help.” It’s less about superheroes and more about exploring the idea that a diverse group of friends become something of a makeshift support system—a family—for a kid who’s lost everything and everyone.

The cornerstone of that group, of course, is the guileless and completely sugar-free marshmallow Baymax. The service-focused robot comes to represent all of the positives that Tadashi was in Hiro’s life—helpfulness, pure goodness and self-sacrifice. And Baymax is also the onscreen character that will keep the kiddie moviegoers wrapped in a cushiony layer of rubbery warmth if and when the surrounding save-the-day action stuff becomes a little too bim-bang-boom-y.

Add in solid lessons of teamwork, friendship, dealing with grief in a healthy way, and exhortations on the emptiness of revenge. You won’t want to say it (because it would make Baymax power down), but you’ll likely find that you were well satisfied with your care.

After spending more than two decades touring, directing, writing and producing for Christian theater and radio (most recently for Adventures in Odyssey, which he still contributes to), Bob joined the Plugged In staff to help us focus more heavily on video games. He is also one of our primary movie reviewers.

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Film Review: ‘Big Hero 6’

Disney's toon division takes a little-known Marvel comic and reinvents it from the ground up, building a superhero buddy movie around a lovable robot called Baymax.

By Peter Debruge

Peter Debruge

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With “ Big Hero 6 ,” an obscure Marvel Comics title gives the Mouse House’s toon division just enough raw material to assemble its own superhero franchise, starring millions of robots — including one, a balloon-bellied virtual nurse named Baymax, that you’ll never forget. Co-directors Don Hall and Chris Williams borrow the character names and a few key details from their pulp source, but otherwise succeed in putting a thoroughly Disney spin on things, delivering appealing personalities, bright, peppy animation, positive life lessons and what looks like a world record for the sheer amount of hugging featured in a superhero movie. More male-skewing than “Frozen,” the relatively hip result should do big business for Disney, especially in Asian territories, with easy expansion possibilities via additional movies, comics or a TV series.

Set in a beautifully rendered, futuristic hybrid city called San Fransokyo — which combines familiar NorCal features, like steep hills, the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay, with skyscrapers, neon signs and characteristically Japanese architectural flourishes — “Big Hero 6” synthesizes American and Asian cultural sensibilities across the board. Displaying a special love for Japanese robotics, screenwriters Robert L. Baird, Daniel Gerson and Jordan Roberts integrate elements of manga, anime and science fiction into the very fabric of the computer-animated project, but also succumb to the same pitfalls faced by so many other superhero pics: Namely, after establishing its fresh and relatable origin story, the movie gets bogged down with a relatively generic villain’s power-hungry schemes.

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Still, there’s enough that’s new and different about “Big Hero 6” to get excited about, especially for those still too young for Marvel’s more intense live-action fare. A couple of decades ago, Disney went out of its way to diversify its princess lineup, featuring characters such as Mulan and Pocahontas in culturally specific stories designed to reflect their unique backgrounds. “Big Hero 6” seems wonderfully color-blind by comparison, centering on a Japanese-American lead, 14-year-old Hiro Hamada (voiced with contagious enthusiasm by Ryan Potter), in a role that could have gone to a character of any race or gender.

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Hiro is crazy-smart for a kid his age. An amateur inventor with a special interest in robotics, he graduated from high school at 13 and now spends his time hustling bigger mecha at underground bot-fighting competitions — a hobby that jumpstarts the high-energy story with a few “Real Steel”-style scenes early on. Older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) wishes Hiro would pick something safer to occupy his time, arranging an impromptu tour of the university science lab in hopes that the teen might be tempted to enroll.

Pay special attention to the four inventors who work alongside Tadashi in the school lab, since they will soon join Hiro’s band of amateur crime-fighters. These misfits include cycling junkie GoGo Tamago (Jamie Chung); laser-blade innovator Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.); chemical-reactions specialist Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez); and Fred (T.J. Miller), a shaggy-haired weirdo obsessed with Godzilla and other freak-of-nature phenomena. As a group, they come across less like the Avengers than the dorky members of Scooby-Doo’s mystery-solving squad.

So who’s the sixth member of Hiro’s gang of heroes? That would be Baymax, a robotic Healthcare Companion unlike any A.I. auds have previously encountered onscreen. (As voiced by “30 Rock’s” Scott Adsit, the character serves as a walking comedy routine — a throwback to the way Paul Reubens played things in “Flight of the Navigator” a generation earlier.) In a movie that boasts no shortage of creative design elements, Baymax is by far the most compelling, inspired by a new class of “soft robotics” being developed at Carnegie Mellon U., whose mechanical endoskeletons are completely hidden by puffy, nonthreatening vinyl.

With his squeaky inflatable suit and gentle demeanor, Baymax looks like a cross between the Marshmallow Man and a giant panda. Personality-wise, the benign bot represents an extreme case of Asimov’s first law: “A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.” In his naive, uniquely amusing way, Baymax is hyper-attentive, almost to the point of smothering, dispensing lollipops and hugs as the situation demands. But he’s also a quick study, learning as he goes, which makes the movie feel a bit like “How to Train Your Robot” for the first hour or so, complete with high-flying bonding sequences that take us throughout the elaborate, densely detailed world of San Fransokyo — in dynamic stereoscopic 3D, no less.

Before his disappearance, Tadashi programmed Baymax to look after his younger brother. Now that Hiro is all alone (except for his oblivious Aunt Cass, played for grins by Maya Rudolph), the robot serves almost as a surrogate parental figure — albeit one that can be upgraded according to its child’s whims. The pic’s most entertaining sequences feature Hiro tinkering with his new gizmo, trying to take what looks like an embarrassing baby toy and toughen him up, whether that means updating Baymax’s database to include a full library of advanced karate moves or creating custom body armor to mask his harmless appearance.

Lately, Disney has been taking turns making toons for girls (“Tangled”) and toons for boys (“Wreck-It Ralph”), and though “Big Hero 6” falls squarely in the latter camp, Baymax is such an endearing character, it shouldn’t be hard to attract auds of both sexes. Still, given the emotional sincerity of the pic’s first half, it’s a shame the filmmakers felt obliged to resort to a testosterone-fueled battle with a less-than-special villain, whose identity comes as a surprise (but maybe not enough of one). What sets this bad guy apart is the fact that his “power” is derived from one of Hiro’s own inventions: a system of micro-bots that do their master’s bidding, resulting in a hypnotic, ever-evolving force to be reckoned with, a bit like “Terminator 2’s” liquid-metal shape-shifter or the gloopy black symbiote seen in “Spider-Man 3.”

The villain, who hides his identity behind a kabuki mask, and the members of Hiro’s wisecracking team all remain recognizable human characters throughout. They’re not suddenly blessed with imaginary new powers or miraculously transformed by gamma rays, like so many other Marvel types. Instead, the film eliminates the stigma of being a “nerd,” illustrating how college-level intelligence gave them the tools to make themselves special, boasting a few useful lessons on anger management and the futility of vengeance in the process.

By now, the Disney-Marvel universe is already filled to bursting with big heroes, and it’s reasonable to ask whether the world really needs six more, especially when all but Baymax feel like kids in high-end Halloween costumes. The movie hypes this new sextet’s introduction by blasting Fall Out Boy’s anthemic “Immortals” on the soundtrack (which employs a stock rock-music score, courtesy of Henry Jackman), but hasn’t entirely convinced us by the end that we need more adventures from these characters. Couldn’t the Mouse House focus on doing that “Incredibles” sequel first?

As an amuse bouche to the talky main attraction, “Big Hero 6” will be accompanied in theaters by a virtually dialogue-free,  six-minute short called “Feast.” In a fun twist, the film is told as a montage of meals, tracking a dozen years in the relationship between a Boston Terrier and his owner, as seen from the insatiably hungry dog’s perspective. Technically speaking, this is an experimental short, in its visual style and its narrative approach, and it takes a bit of time to get one’s bearings, but the emotional core is so strong that we can’t help choking up. If director Patrick Osborne can do that in six minutes with “Feast,” perhaps it’s fair to ask more of the feature that follows.

Reviewed at Tokyo Film Festival (opener), Oct. 23, 2014. MPAA Rating: PG. Running time: 108 MIN.

• Production: (Animated) A Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures release of a Walt Disney Animation Studios production. Produced by Roy Conli. Executive producer, John Lasseter. Co-producer, Kristina Reed.
• Crew: Directed by Don Hall, Chris Williams. Screenplay, Robert L. Baird, Daniel Gerson, Jordan Roberts, based on the comic by Duncan Rouleau, Steven T. Seagle. Camera (color, widescreen, 3D), Rob Dressel, Adolph Lusinsky; editor, Tim Mertens; music, Henry Jackman; music supervisor, Tom Macdougal; production designer, Paul Felix; art director, Scott Watanabe; sound (Dolby Atmos), Gabriel Guy, Doc Kane; sound designer/supervising sound editor, Shannon Mills; re-recording mixers, David E. Fluhr, Gabriel Guy; visual effects supervisor, Kyle Odermatt; head of effects, Michael Kaschalk; head of animation, Zach A. Parrish; heads of story, Joe Mateo, Paul Briggs; lead character designer, Shiyoon Kim; character design supervisor, Jin Kim; technical supervisor, Hank Driskill; stereo production supervisor, Marisa X. Castro; creative advisors, Nathan Greno, Mark Kennedy; associate producer, Bradford Simonsen; casting, Jamie Sparer Roberts.
• With: Voices: Scott Adsit, Ryan Potter, Daniel Henney, T.J. Miller, Jamie Chung, Damon Wayans Jr., Genesis Rodriguez, James Cromwell, Alan Tudyk, Maya Rudolph, Stan Lee.

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Big Hero 6 Review

DISNEY’S ANIMATED SUPERHERO

Jaunt soars high.

Last November, Disney released their 53 rd animated feature Frozen . This Disney-esque take on the Hans Christens Anderson’s Snow Queen was met with overwhelming praise and joyous fanfare. Critics and moviegoers fell in love with Elisa, Anna, Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf as well as its enchanting musical songs, making Frozen an undeniable success (Grossing over 1.2 billion at the box office worldwide). Many believed, given Frozen’s popularity, that Disney would already have a Frozen 2 already in the pipeline or even, keeping with Disney’s traditional identity, produce something similar with fairy tale-esque princesses, talking creatures, and catchy musical numbers. However, Disney’s latest animated film takes a more contemporary approach, jumping head first into the superhero foray with the movie Big Hero 6 . Does this superhero feature continue Disney’s success from last year or does it drops the ball with this CG misfire?

Set in the city of San Fransokyo, Hiro (Ryan Potter) is a genius teenager who has no guidance or ambition in his life, wasting his intellect and time on fighting robot battles. In an attempt to guide Hiro, his older brother Tadashi (Daniel Henney) introduces him to the wonders of the science department at San Fransokyo Tech, introducing Hiro to his colleagues / friends. After successfully gaining admission into the university via impressing Professor Callaghan (James Cromwell) with his work on microbots, Hiro’s world crumbles when his older brother dies in an accident. By chance, Hiro, dealing through his grief, comes across Tadashi’s invention Baymax (Scott Adsit), an inflatable robot nurse with specialized programs to heal the sick and wounded. As things progress, Hiro learns that a villain in a kabuki mask is using his microbot for nefarious reasons and begins to take charge against the masked individual by reprogramming Baymax into a fighting machine and calls upon Tadashi’s tech pals to fight alongside him, transforming them into superheroes in the process.

THE GOOD / THE BAD

As I stated above, Disney, who several years ago acquired the comic book juggernaut Marvel, choose to forgo the more traditional approach that they courageous embraced last year with Frozen with some more in tune with current pop culture relevance…superheroes. Big Hero 6 represents the studios first attempt to adapt a Marvel comic as an animated cartoon and choosing a lesser known comic book series such as Big Hero 6 to adapt is a bold move indeed. Fortunately, Don Hall and Chris Williams (Both of whom have previously worked on several Disney animated films as writers / directors) step up to meet the challenge as duo directors for Big Hero 6 , creating a feature with a mixture of big superhero action and Disney’s signature heartfelt sensitivity.

The production team behind Big Hero 6 is worth noting, imaging such a dazzling world that combines Japanese influences, futuristic aesthetics, and San Francisco iconic landmarks (Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, etc.). The end is result is wonderful that seems both familiar, but also otherworldly with vibrant colors and details that go hand in hand in creating such an urban cityscape highlighted in San Fransokyo. The movie also makes the notion that scientific discovery is “fun” with its characters celebrating curiosity and innovation; a true positive message for kids that science is cool and, through perseverance and dedication, can blossom into endless possibilities.

Perhaps one of the best parts about Big Hero 6 is, of course, Baymax himself. It’s almost virtually impossible not to fall in love with this loveable marshmallow of a robot that the filmmakers brought to life. His squishiness and rotund figure makes for instant comedy as he waddles around to and fro with gingerly movements accompanied by his voice, supplied by Scott Adsit, brings a naïve, but endearing vocals to Baymax. You just simply cannot get enough of this plus size plushy robot who will instantly charm his way into your heart with a smile.

As far as voice talents go, Big Hero 6 enlists several unknown actors and actress to bring its characters to life with a couple of well-known ones to mind the gap. Unknown actor Ryan Potter does a good job as Hiro, providing the right sort of arrogance, charm, and guile for the main protagonist of the feature. Along with Daniel Henney, who provides the voice for Hiro’s older brother Tadashi, Hiro meets and eventually teams up with a group of youthful individuals at San Fransoyko Tech. This includes GoGo (Jamie Chung), Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), Wasabi (Damon Wayans, Jr.), and Fred (T.J. Miller). These character, though colorful and punctual in interjecting humor to the film, are a little bit flat and stereotypical stock characters, which is a miss opportunity to clearly define Big Hero 6’s other team members. Other notable voice talents include James Cromwell as Robert Callaghan, a professor at San Fransoyko Tech, Maya Rudolph as Hiro’s aunt Cass, and Alan Tudyk as Allstair Krei, a scientist motivated by wealth and opportunism.

Being a superhero feature (And an origin story), Big Hero 6 falls into the same beats that so many others do in both the superhero and Disney genre. This brings about an all-too-familiar premise to viewers and can be a little of a letdown as the movie becomes a little predictable, letting the twist and turns that Big Hero 6 throws at you deflate its impact. I found myself guessing and / or already knowing what’s going to happen at certain points of the movie like something tragic is going happen to Hiro at the beginning of the movie, or who the main bad guy of the feature is before he’s unmasked. The movie also lacks a great sustainable villain for Hiro and friends to combat with, delegating that task to man in the kabuki mask. While there’s a sense of mystery of the masked figure upon first glance, the villain doesn’t grow and the reason behind his villainy is a little half-baked. Superhero films need supervillians and the man in the kabuki mask isn’t a sizeable threat for what this animated tale wants to project.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that the animated short that precedes Big Hero 6 titled Feast is terrific and heartwarming. The animation for this short is also worth with a mixture of 2D style created in 3D computer animation, similar to what Disney did for their previous short Paperman (Shown before the feature Wreck-It Ralph several years ago).

FINAL THOUGHTS

Is Big Hero 6 better than Frozen ? Personally, I would say no, but this animated superhero film does make a sincere gesture of wholesome entertainment and joyous fun. It’s a great kids flick (For this Holiday season) for youngster and for those young at heart with touching moments, hilarious humor, and superhero frivolity.  While it doesn’t quite deliver on a particular new storyline (Being a conventional narrative of sorts) and not devoting enough time to other team members and its baddie, Big Hero 6 still produces a vibrant animated tale of a boy and his robot and the special bond they share with each other.

4.1 out of 5 (Highly Recommend)

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It’s hard to come by well-informed people in this particular subject, however, you seem like you know what you’re talking about!

It was a good movie. Surprise that Disney has created a Big Hero 6 sequel.

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Big Hero 6 (United States, 2014)

In 2013, Frozen arrived in theaters to capture the hearts, minds, and imaginations of young people (especially girls) around the world. Big Hero 6 is Disney's follow-up and it's unlikely to have the same seismic impact. Although competently made and consistently engaging, there's nothing special about this animated superhero origin story. The first collaboration between Disney animation and Marvel Comics, it lags behind The Incredibles , Disney/Pixar's previous foray into this genre.

The story takes place in the futuristic city of San Fransokyo, a cultural, geographical, and architectural fusion of East and West. The protagonist is young teen Hiro Hamada (voice of Ryan Potter), a robotics prodigy who accompanies his older brother, Tadashi (Daniel Henney), to college one day and falls in love with what he sees in the lab. In order to prove his worthiness to enter the university, he must invent something to impress the head of the department, Professor Robert Callaghan (James Cromwell). Hiro receives support from his brother's friends and cohorts: live wire Go Go Tomago (Jamie Chung), chemistry whiz Honey Lemon (Genesis Rodriguez), big-but-loveable Wasabi (Damon Wayans Jr.), and superhero-obsessed Fred (T.J.Miller). Also in the mix is Tadashi's inflatable robot creation, Baymax (Scott Adsit). Tragedy occurs when Tadashi and Professor Callaghan are killed in a mysterious fire. Hiro discovers that the fire wasn't accidental - it was deliberately set to cover up the theft of his invention, which is being (mis)used by a kabuki-masked figure with dark plans for San Franksokyo.

This is the second animated film of 2014 to confront death with a deftness of touch that won't overly upset children. It happened in How to Train Your Dragon 2 and is being repeated here. In the past, traditional animated films have mostly avoided the subject (there are exceptions - Bambi's mother, for example), but this may be an acknowledgment that kids are growing up faster and able to handle somber content. Although Big Hero 6 addresses Tadashi's death carefully and respectfully, the film's overall tone remains light. There's a fair amount of comedy and several obligatory action sequences that could easily be converted into playable video game levels. The filmmakers deserve credit for the seamless way in which they incorporate the serious elements into the overall story. This potential minefield is successfully navigated.

The film's marketing-friendly creature is the robot Baymax, which look a little like a cross between the Michelin Man and a giant Pillsbury Dough Boy. Big, white, and fluffy (except when wearing his armor), Baymax is a toymaker's dream. Although not as cuddly as the average Disney mascot, this robot is guaranteed to capture children's imaginations. Big Hero 6 is geared more toward boys than girls so the animators have refrained from making Baymax too cute (no singing or dancing). Despite the superhero stuff going on, one could make a convincing case that Big Hero 6 is really about the relationship that develops between the lonely Hiro and the creation of his beloved brother.

After immersion in the novel visual styles showcased in The Boxtrolls and The Book of Life , the "standard" approach used in Big Hero 6 feels a little…vanilla. The backgrounds are eye-poppingly rendered - San Fransokyo looks great - but the foreground images occasionally lack sizzle. As for the 3D - call it "serviceable." The voice acting is solid but unremarkable, with Disney opting to use "character voices" (for lack of a better term) than immediately recognizable, A-list talent. This has its advantages because familiar voices can overwhelm a character.

The superhero types on display here are of the Batman/Iron Man variety - normal people whose "powers" come as a result of technological improvements rather than through mutations or innate abilities. The film presents positive messages about the emptiness of revenge and the importance of friendship while offering an adventure designed for viewers too young for the more intense storytelling of The Avengers . The screenplay is smart enough to be considered adult-friendly. This isn't "classic Disney" but it's an experience parents and children can enjoy together in the dark, and sometimes that's all one can ask of a big-budget animated film.

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• Beauty and the Beast (1991)
• Grave of the Fireflies (1993)
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• (There are no more better movies of (voices) Ryan Potter)
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• (There are no more worst movies of Scott Adsit)
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My Hero Academia: You're Next

Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired. Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired. Izuku Midoriya, a U.A. High School student who aspires to be the best hero he can be, confronts the villain who imitates the hero he once admired.

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• October 11, 2024 (United States)
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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

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By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

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