The Beauty of the Slow Lane

We've seen a number of movies over the Christmas break, some of which were Christmas presents (and none of them in the theater). Here are a few quick thoughts about two of my favorites.

Cars (2006)

I'm not generally a big fan of animated films, but I LOVED this movie! It was very entertaining with a unique storyline and well-formed details and had a great background story and themes. I loved the connections with Route 66 and the importance of tradition and roots and, quite simply, slowing down.

By the way, I love how they brought in racing legends like Richard Petty and other interesting characters like the guys from Car Talk to do the voices.



Regarding Henry (1991)

This is a more mature movie, but with some parallel themes to Cars. A high-power attorney is shot in the head during a robbery and needs to re-learn how to walk, talk, etc. over the course of time. This might have been interesting in and of itself, but Henry goes back to his old life and discovers that he doesn't like the person he once was. Interesting and with some really fun and creative scenes.