Walt Disney Pictures reached a new high score on Nov. 2, with "Wreck-It Ralph," a nostalgic film that incorporates the style of 8-bit video games with newer, colorful graphics and a cast of memorable, over-the-top characters.
Tired of destroying buildings and always playing the role of the villain, Wreck-It Ralph (voiced by John C. Reilly) leaves his video game Fix-It Felix Jr. to find the medal that will allow him to become respected by the rest of his video game world.
He explores other video games, such as "Hero's Duty," where he meets Sergeant Calhoun (voiced by Jane Lynch), and "Sugar Rush," an insanely pink race-car game that is home to Vanellope Von Schweetz (voiced by Sarah Silverman), a bubbly little girl with whom he develops a close friendship. The characterization throughout the film, as well as the endearing relationship between Ralph and Vanellope contribute to the success and charm of the movie.
In addition, each actor's voice is perfect for their character in terms of looks and personality. Jane Lynch is often type-casted for her sarcastic, militaristic demeanor, while Sarah Silverman's character is just as quirky as she is.
Gamers will be excited for the references and cameos by actual video game characters, such as Sonic the Hedgehog, Bowser from Super Mario Bros., Zangief from Street Fighter II, Q*Bert and even Pac-Man. The producers successfully mix the graphics from older video games with their new, fictionalized video game worlds.
The graphics are supplemented by a score that blends 8-bit music with contemporary hip-hop and dub step. While half of the score is comprised of original pieces by Henry Jackman, it also features Rihanna, Skrillex and Owl City. The score sets the tone for the entire movie - it is a mesh of musical genres that coincides with the diverse genres of video games.
According to MTV.com, "Wreck-It Ralph" received $49.1 million in the box office, making it Disney's number one animated film.
Overall, "Wreck-It Ralph" will surprise the audience with its sentimentality, reminding them of their childhood arcade games; however, the new vibrant characters and unique plot also make this movie a top score.
The Setonian gives this movie 4 out of 5 stars.
Melissa Murray can be reached at melissa.murray@student.shu.edu.
