«The Incredibles 2» or the return of superheroes

Cinema Wednesdays - Marina De Toro

After years of anticipation, youngsters of the 2000s and 2010s will at last be able to discover the sequel to the animated series the Indestructibles released in 2004. This new opus is the continuation of the first film, which ended with the Demolisher's attack on the banks. All members of the Parr family don the mythical red costumes of the Indestructibles to stop this powerful burglar. Nevertheless, superheroes are still outlaws in this universe, and the Indestructibles are not applauded by the authorities when they intervene to save the world.

Fortunately for the Indestructibles, Winston Devor is on the side of superhero rehabilitation, and is desperate to use the influence of his DEVTECH company to change society's perception of these extraordinary individuals. Elastigirl, or Hélène Parr, is chosen by Winston to carry out rescue missions, with an onboard camera created by her sister, to show the world the need for superheroes in action. However, the superheroine has to contend with the Hypnotist, who always manages to escape, raising questions about his modus operandi...

Impressive visuals

Between 2004 and 2018, it was obvious that the digital quality would be different, but it turns out to be quite exceptional at the microscopic level. Indeed, the clothes of Mr. Indestructible, or Bob Parr, come close to reality with the detail of texture and creasing. Then there's the designers' special attention to the characters' body movements, including the raising and lowering of the ribcage in the breathing process. All these new details, however, maintain a close graphic relationship with the first film, giving the effect of an uninterrupted sequel.

The world of The Incredibles is also interesting in terms of its composition, which blends the style of 1960s America with advanced technology worthy of science fiction. Pixar Studios have thus succeeded in their visual challenge, presenting us not only with today's level of technology, but also with the ability to stay close to the original.

Questions and criticism

The Incredibles 2 is entertaining with its action scenes, breathtaking superhero demonstrations and, above all, the new abilities finally unveiled by the Parr family's very young Jack-Jack. In addition to the stunts, this cartoon poses some interesting questions, particularly on the subject of legislation against superheroes: should an unjust law be obeyed? This is a fundamental question that has been debated since the advent of modern society, but there are also much more topical and critical questions concerning technology in particular. It is through the Hypnotist that the idea is raised, and he argues that new technologies, like superheroes, enslave individuals by making them weak and passive in society.

Ultimately, this cartoon plays with the limits of Manichaeism, as the superheroes are outlaws while they are portrayed as «good guys» and the «bad guys» are complex, rebellious beings, as we saw with the disappointment of Syndrome in the first film. On the other hand, the script could have been more elaborate, as the denouement is easily deciphered. However, let's not forget that this film was originally intended for children, which doesn't prevent older viewers from having an entertaining time!

Write to the author : marina.detoro@leregardlibre.ch

Photo credit: © The Walt Disney Company Switzerland