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henryfields
Reviews
Robots (2005)
definitely not Pixar
I was certainly hoping for more. I didn't hate the film, but I felt it lacked many key elements that come standard in Pixar's lineup. The story was okay. The characters were okay. The animation was okay. But nothing was outstanding. It felt rushed in every area. I wasn't moved by much in Robots...in fact, I can't recall the main character's first name (much less most of the minor characters). The star-studded cast ends up being the draw to a film that doesn't deliver. From my understanding, this was not a Dreamworks film. However, it had a feel similar to Antz and Shark Tale: both falling well short of the mark of being a classic. Pixar, on the other hand, has Disneyesque storytelling that is firmly backed by strongly developed characters, a notable cast, and incredible animation that pushes the envelope. Admitedly, I did laugh at a couple of scenes/ gags in Robots, but overall I left feeling somewhat disappointed.
Heartland (1979)
Interesting adaptation of an Arcadian vision
Heartland is based on the letters of Elinore Pruitt Stewart collected in Letters of a Woman Homesteader. For anyone who is familiar with both works, it is obvious that while the initial subject matter is the same, the intentions of each are vastly different.
If you are looking for the sweet, Arcadian version of life as an American homesteader, then read Letters. However, if you want to see a brutally honest picture of what it takes to make it on the frontier, then watch Heartland. Each has its own appeal. Letters and Heartland are wonderful works, and are highly recommended for any student of the American West.