Going into Big Hero 6, it was hard to know what to really expect. Comic readers are probably aware that these characters exist in the Marvel Universe--although in a completely different form. With the Disney logo front and center, it was clear this was going to be something unlike what we were familiar with in the comics.
In a typical Disney animated fashion, we get a great introduction to Hiro Hamada (Hiro Takachiho in the comics) and his older brother. Living with their aunt, they've already gone through some of the natural stages of the superhero origin journey having lost their parents years ago. Hiro is a likable character right from the beginning. He's a fourteen-year-old genius and doesn't seem to have a care in the world. You see where this is going, right?
In order to make the transition from an average fourteen-year-old robotics prodigy to a full-fledged superhero, something big has to happen. In the early half of the movie, it almost felt as if the story was too cookie-cutter. We see things starting to build up in a positive direction and are introduced to even more likable characters. Things are just going too well for Hiro.
Despite knowing there is some impending doom on the way, once it does hit, you can't help but feel the emotions Hiro is going through. This, along with the innocence of Baymax, a robot healthcare companion built by Hiro's brother, gets you emotionally invested in the movie. Through additional events, we now have a reason for the action to kick in further and soon there is the discovery of an actual supervillain in San Fransokyo.
Even though you'll likely have a smile on your face as you're watching, you can't help the feeling that you already know how the movie is going to continue. You'll be ready to decide you know exactly how it will all end. Thankfully, that isn't the case. Things do start to twist and turn.
The action and animation are fantastic. San Fransokyo looks amazing. It's almost like the animators are just trying to show off. There is an incredible amount of detail and this is just one reason I'd want to see the movie again. The contrast of light and dark in different scenes makes it easy to become immersed in this new world. The fact that Hiro's new friends will soon get fancy new suits is welcomed because you just want to see more of these visuals.
You can also see there is a pretty diverse group of characters with the core cast. It's not forced upon you in the movie but having different characters a wide audience can relate too isn't a bad thing. It's not often we seamlessly get this sort of diversity.
If you're hoping to not fall in love with Baymax, I'm sorry to say that just might not be possible. Each character has their own personalities and traits that sets them apart. They felt a little typical in the beginning. I didn't think I'd care for Go Go Tomago's edgy attitude or Fred's constant comedy-relief dialogue but this was yet another thing that changed during the course of the movie. I just couldn't help myself but start liking them all.
This might be a kids' movie but there are moments when things get a little heavy. Be prepared for the movie to play with your emotions. Still, it is an incredibly feel-good movie. There's a mix of things that work for the kids and some that work for the adults. The action scenes don't necessarily get too intense but there will likely be some moments of sadness along with joy. The entire audience left the movie theater in high spirits.
Is Big Hero 6 a perfect movie? Not quite. It does have a lot of heart. It will capture your attention and will entertain you immensely. Some moments are predictable and a little cliché but you won't really give it a second thought because you'll be having so much fun. There's action, humor, suspense, and surprises to keep you glued. It's a great family movie and you'll find yourself wanting a sequel as soon as it's over. Speaking of the ending, make sure you stay until the very end, of course. There is a scene after all the credits.
I didn't think I'd fall in love with this movie. It just couldn't be helped.
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