Finding Nemo

An absolutely perfect film. One of my favorites of all time, just chock full of quotable moments, fantastic voice acting, gorgeous animation, and an all time great score from Thomas Newman. I particularly noticed the gorgeous score when Marlin and Dory are inside the whale, as the heartfelt piano just started tugging my soul. But really it’s all throughout, the music is just inspired and it really emotionally grabs me whether we’re watching a comedic moment, a swelling adventure, or being shown Darla one of the scariest villains of all time. Meanwhile Andrew Stanton’s shot selection is consistently creative, colorful, and engaging. It’s always clear what’s going on, and both my head and my heart are always being led in the direction that Stanton is taking me. The voice acting is maybe the best cast animated film of all time. Ellen DeGeneres is an inspired choice for Dory, but Albert Brooks, Willem Dafoe, Geoffrey Rush, and Andrew Stanton all give fantastic voice performances too. Director Andrew Stanton is the voice of Crush btw, one of the most quotable characters in the film.  I love the thematic conflict between a parent trying to protect their child but also having to allow their child to become their own person (or fish). It’s such a truthful worry that every parent faces, but only this fish movie manages to make it feel so coherent and meaningful.  Honestly I can’t believe just how good this film is and how it gets somewhat overlooked in the all time great discussions. Every single moment works for me. It’s hilarious and full of exciting adventure. Seriously there is not one second where I wasn’t deeply entertained, even after having seen this film dozens of times as a kid. It’s in my top 10 all time for a reason. This is a perfect movie.