Monsters University

12 years on from the release of Monsters Inc., we see dynamic duo Mike and Sully return to our screens in this Pixar prequel. Monsters University introduces us to a young Mike Wazowski and his ambition to become a top ‘scarer’. Chasing this dream, he attends Monstropolis’ very own Monsters University where he meets Sully on the highly competitive Scare Program. After facing difficulty, these two must work together with a team of other oddball monsters to prove themselves to Dean Hardscrabble by competing in the Scare Games. Usually, I’d say any film following such a successful standalone movie would never beat its nostalgic original, but Monsters University is exceptionally entertaining and tells an amazing backstory to the 2001 hit. This family film also sends an important message, doing an amazing job at highlighting how fun the university experience can be, as well as showing kids that it is not the only pathway for life and that success comes in many ventures.

(Tag yourself as a monster- I’m Randall because I’d rather be half blind and squint all day than wear my glasses.)

Holly Beaumont

The lovable dynamic duo of Mike and Sulley are back in Pixar’s hilarious prequel to the much-loved Monsters Inc. In this film we see how the best friends began as rivals at University as they both compete to be the top scarer. Monsters University focuses more on Mike’s (Billy Crystal) trials and successes at University as he fights for his dream. Mike’s strong will and determination quickly comes through as he makes his way into Monsters University where he encounters all of his future colleagues in their amusing adolescent forms such as geeky Randall (Steve Buscemi).

The rivalry between Mike and Sulley (John Goodman) is made evident from the moment they are on screen together as Mike works hard to prove his worth against Sulley’s lazy and arrogant approach which relies purely on his natural talent. Naturally their competitiveness leads to both of them failing their class and being forced to work together. From there the bromance we all know and love begins to grow.

This film particularly appeals to students as the experience of going to University, surviving freshers, the stress of exams and the fantastic friends you are sure to make is epitomised in this brilliant animation!

Anyone who is a fan of Monsters Inc. will love this prequel and the heart-warming story of how these two failing students find success in the most unlikely way.

Lauren Howard