This is one of those rare sequels that builds on its concept rather than coasting on it. You probably know what to expect. A two inch high mouse fully integrated into a loving family who accept his presence as readily as the anonymous New Yorkers between whose feet the little guy speeds in his toy car. This time, the moviemakers focus almost entirely on the non-human characters. But the movie doesn't suffer for it, as the furry and feathery characters lead lives as complex and interesting as the humans (who still provide strong supporting roles).
The concept is outlandish, the moviemakers know it, and they're glad to let us laugh at the absurdity of it. But while they do so they're still building important details into the movie. An early scene where Stuart's mom graphically illustrates her squeamishness to the father about letting Stuart play soccer becomes important to a central theme of the movie later on.
Stuart's challenge is a bit more mature this time, as he is forced to sift through his feelings on friendship and facing what look like insurmountable setbacks when a small yellow bird literally falls into his life. All is not as it appears, however, as his new friend has ties to a con artist in the form of a falcon voiced menacingly by James Wood. Michael J. Fox (again pitch perfect as the plucky mouse's voice) lends a voice to Stuart that leaves no doubt he will rise to whatever challenge he faces. And Nathan Lane once again is the perfect voice for the more cynical of the two adopted Littles as Snowbell the cat. The parents do wonderful jobs as well, making clear within the same scene the dilemma of wanting to protect their tiny son while giving him room to grow. Stuart's human brother behaves exactly as you'd expect a caring older brother to. At times frustrated with the smaller sibling's needs and wanting his own space, but still willing to take risks for a little brother.
The subject matter is more mature and at times borders on dark, but its still a wonderful story for children. The movie is unafraid to put its characters in genuinely dangerous situations or tinge a scene with sadness. Yet in the end the movie is all about overcoming obstacles and finding the brighter side when things look gloomy, without ever resorting to cliches or preachiness.
This movie is beautiful to look at. Bright colors abound but never clash or overwhelm the action. The effects and animation are good enough that I was never jarred out of my suspension of disbelief. The scenes where Stuart takes to the sky in a sporty yellow biplane are a joy to watch for the freedom they embody (what child never dreamed of flying a toy plane through their home), yet remain an integral part of the movie.
After a bit of retrospection, I'd say the sequel is better to me than the original. The story is better this time, and its mastery of techniques both traditional and relatively new makes for an enjoyable experience. If you've got kids or are still a kid at heart, you probably won't be disappointed.
The concept is outlandish, the moviemakers know it, and they're glad to let us laugh at the absurdity of it. But while they do so they're still building important details into the movie. An early scene where Stuart's mom graphically illustrates her squeamishness to the father about letting Stuart play soccer becomes important to a central theme of the movie later on.
Stuart's challenge is a bit more mature this time, as he is forced to sift through his feelings on friendship and facing what look like insurmountable setbacks when a small yellow bird literally falls into his life. All is not as it appears, however, as his new friend has ties to a con artist in the form of a falcon voiced menacingly by James Wood. Michael J. Fox (again pitch perfect as the plucky mouse's voice) lends a voice to Stuart that leaves no doubt he will rise to whatever challenge he faces. And Nathan Lane once again is the perfect voice for the more cynical of the two adopted Littles as Snowbell the cat. The parents do wonderful jobs as well, making clear within the same scene the dilemma of wanting to protect their tiny son while giving him room to grow. Stuart's human brother behaves exactly as you'd expect a caring older brother to. At times frustrated with the smaller sibling's needs and wanting his own space, but still willing to take risks for a little brother.
The subject matter is more mature and at times borders on dark, but its still a wonderful story for children. The movie is unafraid to put its characters in genuinely dangerous situations or tinge a scene with sadness. Yet in the end the movie is all about overcoming obstacles and finding the brighter side when things look gloomy, without ever resorting to cliches or preachiness.
This movie is beautiful to look at. Bright colors abound but never clash or overwhelm the action. The effects and animation are good enough that I was never jarred out of my suspension of disbelief. The scenes where Stuart takes to the sky in a sporty yellow biplane are a joy to watch for the freedom they embody (what child never dreamed of flying a toy plane through their home), yet remain an integral part of the movie.
After a bit of retrospection, I'd say the sequel is better to me than the original. The story is better this time, and its mastery of techniques both traditional and relatively new makes for an enjoyable experience. If you've got kids or are still a kid at heart, you probably won't be disappointed.