Review of Speed Racer (2008) by Gregg M — 23 Sep 2012

I am very surprised that I enjoyed this movie as much as I did. Admittedly the story starts out a bit disjointed and jumbled in the beginning. Also the story is simple, so don't expect anything very deep. But that is part of its charm in a way.

By the middle of the movie it smooths out considerably. By the final third, it is exciting and the entire climax is just great. I say this as someone who has no love for the original series from which this was inspired and I don't get wowed by cars or special effects. Though conversely I'm not turned off by excessive special effects, which this movie has everywhere. I actually found most of them appropriately placed and done.

This climax was just a well done; no question or argument. The emotions are even surprisingly well crafted if a bit shallowly, making the viewer feel for the conflict as it happens and the triumphant at the end. I even teared up a bit. It is great.

Aside from the rough beginning, nearly every scene with Spritle, the youngest son, can be skipped through as he adds very little to movie and I find him annoying. I was able to skip these because I watched it at home.