Review of Finding Dory (2016) by Amy W — 02 Mar 2017

Still Swimming Along.

Prior to seeing the film, Finding Dory held high expectations, following the classic Finding Nemo. Pixar needs to pick up the pace. This film came several years a little too late. None the least, I can say wholeheartedly it was worth the wait. Additionally, I was disappointed with the title pick for the sequel. My first thoughts were unoriginal and bland. However I wanted to keep an open mind for the movie, because Finding Nemo was just so great. After the movie, I realized that title was quite witty and amusing; Dory herself is not a lost fish, her identity and memories from her past are. This makes the title all more fitting.

The story takes place in the colorful reef that Nemo's clan calls home. Dory has a sudden flashback to a time when she was little blue fish. Dory's parents are playing hide and seek with her to help improve her short term memory. She remembers for the first time she has a family and that she needs to find them. Throughout her journey, Dory navigates through scattered memories to find her forgotten family and in turn herself. Another recovered memory, shows how her parents use shells as a trail to guide little Dory home. The shells are symbolic, her forgotten memories act as a guide as the shells did. Dory is discovering herself while on the path to finding her family. A fast track to the other side of the ocean introduces a new and exciting setting, the marine wildlife rehabilitation center. Along the way, Dory makes and recovers old and new friendship which add an entertaining splash to the movie. A new character Hank is introduced, the introverted octopus starring Ed O'neill. Ed also stars as Jay Pritchett in Modern Family. Hank the stubborn recluse, became a quick favorite, when Dory and himself form an unlikely friendship. Without the help of Hank, Dory wouldn't be able to make it far. Hank helps Dory physical and mental, helping her travel and also acts as her memory bank. The two challenge each other, in turn strengthening each other weaknesses. Hank and Dory are polar opposites, but they balance each other. Their diverse friendship shows the importance and impact we can have on others. One of several hidden message we can take from the movie and apply in own live. We are diverse, and that's okay, it's a good thing. Different views and cultures give us the opportunity to learn from each other, and grow.

Arguably, there wasn't really anything major that bothered me with this movie. With that being said, there were a few dramatic parts, that didn't seem logical, but were funny, so it was okay. The story line was a bit predictable, but the vibrant animations, and clever script made up for it.

The audience is able to connect to Dory as the main character in a sympathetic way, rather than merely comical, as her character was first portrayed in Finding Nemo. Dory's trek to find her family and discover herself is a lighthearted and adventurous sequel to the nostalgic Finding Nemo.