Ray Gunn - Movie Review

Ray Gunn

The reviewer gives Ray Gunn an emphatic, spoiler-free recommendation, calling it a joyful surprise and a likely top-five-or-six film of the year. They praise its unusual blend of noir, retrofuturism, and an optimistic vision of the future, as well as its sharp writing, mystery, action, romance, and humor.

An original animated film for all ages

A major part of the film’s appeal is that it feels like an original animated movie for all ages, rather than one made only for young children. The reviewer compares its spirit to The Iron Giant, Titan A.E., Treasure Planet, and Anastasia. They also applaud Brad Bird for pursuing a distinctive style instead of making the film feel like a typical Pixar or DreamWorks production.

Performances and animation

The voice cast earns particular praise. Sam Rockwell gives Ray Gunn a clever, capable edge, Scarlett Johansson brings an alluring old-Hollywood presence to her character, and Tom Waits is the reviewer’s standout as the one-eyed alien Eyera.

The reviewer also highlights a tense, inventive sequence in which Ray struggles to retrieve his weapon inside a high-speed freight elevator, praising the film’s clever action choreography and animation.

Final thoughts

The witty noir dialogue and philosophical dilemmas make the reviewer eager to revisit the film and discuss it in a spoiler-filled review. They encourage viewers to support it in theaters, hoping its success will lead to more bold, original animated movies.

Personalities mentioned

Brad Bird, Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson, Alan Tudyk, Michelle Rodriguez, Bobby Cannavale, Tom Waits, Patton Oswalt, and Michael Giacchino.