REVIEW: Cars

By Harper M.

Cars review 

By harper menendez 

In advance of the upcoming 20th anniversary of he movie Cars, produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released in 2006, the animated film may be on the minds of many, including people at AHS, especially students, who may have grown up on it.  The film combines excitement, humor, and important life lessons. It tells the story of Lightning McQueen, a race car who learns that winning isn’t everything after he gets stranded in a small town called Radiator Springs. The Cars world is built around automobiles, roads, travel, and the idea of going somewhere and often slowing down to appreciate where you are. Lightning McQueen learns to value the people and place around him rather than just racing forward. Despite being almost twenty years old, students and the community at Airport High remain fans. Personally, I love the film. 

First of all, the plot is not only great but the morals and themes it teaches are valuable too. On the one hand, the movie Cars tells the story of Lightning McQueen, a racecar obsessed with money and fame who gets stranded in a town in the middle of nowhere called Radiator Springs, and viewers follow along his quest to get fixed to make it to  the prestigious Piston Cup. Along the way, he learns the importance of friendship, community, and slowing down to enjoy life. So, the movie is both fun to watch and relatable to kids and adults, but also a reminder that growth often comes from unexpectable places.

Secondly, many of the characters, not just Lighting McQueen, are compelling and well-developed. From the goofy yet loyal Mater to the wise Doc Hudson, Cars is packed with unforgettable characters that bring warmth and humor to the story. Each character adds depth and personality, creating a sense of community that makes Radiator Springs feel real and inviting. Because the characters are diverse and different, each person who watches the movie can probably relate to at least one of them.  Thus, the relatability of the characters is also noteworthy.

A third reason I love Cars is because of the art and visual look of the movie.  Pixar’s attention to detail shines in Cars. The animators created beautiful landscapes inspired by real-life Route 66 and the American Southwest. The design of each vehicle is creative and expressive, turning machines into believable, emotional characters. Even years after its release, the film’s visuals still hold up as some of Pixar’s most impressive work.

Ethan G., a good friend from my history class, said, “Yes I think car is a very interesting movie because it has a great plot and also it has very likeable characters. Plus, it is loved by kids and grownups.”

Mrs. Bovidge, my history teacher, said, “I think Cars is an interesting movie because it keeps kids and adults invested. There are lots of funny characters and jokes throughout the whole thing AND people are still making memes about Lightning McQueen. Ka-Chow!”

John L., the producer for the movie Cars, said, "'Cars was about Lightning McQueen learning to slow down and to enjoy life. The journey is the reward." 

Overall, Cars is an entertaining and meaningful movie that goes beyond fast races and bright animation. It tells a story about learning what really matters in life, like friendship, community, and personal growth. Watching Lightning McQueen change from a self-centered racer to someone who cares about others makes the movie both enjoyable and inspiring. While it may not be Pixar’s most complex film, Cars still leaves a lasting impression and reminds viewers that sometimes the most important victories happen off the track.