Ratatouille

Ratatouille (G) * * * *

Five Star Fun!

Watch the tables get turned in Ratatouille, the hilarious family flick from Walt Disney Pictures. Once again Pixar Studios shows they are in a class by themselves when it comes to animation, ready for all to behold first hand at Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking) as well as the Esplanade 6, Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Famous Players Silver City cites around B.C.

State of the art animation is a hallmark of Pixar. Imagination lets them trump all others as this tale again exemplifies. Director Brad Bird (The Incredibles) eases his way into this delightful story full of family values and uncanny humour. Stuffy France makes the perfect setting for this tale which sees an aloof rodent prove he has what it takes to whip up loads of surprises at one of Paris's finest eateries.

Rats are known to be the scourge of restaurants and our friend somehow winds up in the midst of controversy galore at a five star eatery. Competition between chefs is par for the course at classy joints but poor Linguini seems to get a rough ride from all concerned. Lack of skill in the culinary department assures him a quick departure from his current employment – almost. One chance meeting between a master chef rat called Remy and this sad sack loser shows just how effective teamwork can be. Against all odds the human and rodent form an unbelievable friendship that creates big divides among their respective friends and family.

As if that wasn't enough food for fodder the powers that be must also come to grips with a scheming employer and a jaded food critic in this race to supremacy in the coveted halls of classy dining.

Tremendous animation sparks this tale that is as creative and funny as it gets. A bit of romance and gorgeous shots of fabled Parisian landmarks further fuel this robust effort. Voice work from Lou Romano (Cars), Peter O' Toole (Lawrence of Arabia) and Ian Holm embolden an extremely witty script that will leave you chuckling all the way home.