'Finding Dory' Movie Review

Hello, fellow moviegoers!
   Finding Nemo is one of those movies that people in my generation consider to be a must-see. It has everything you could want in a film. It's funny, it's emotional, and it's charming. I don't think I've every met someone who doesn't like Finding Nemo. So, as you'd expect, the announcement of a sequel was met with much excitement. However, sequels to animated films generally aren't as successful. Plus, the original was released 13 years ago, so, to many that was a cause for concern.
   Finding Dory is directed by Andrew Stanton and it features the voice talents of Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O'Neill, Kaitlin Olson, Ty Burrell, and Idris Elba. Six months after the events of Finding Nemo, everybody's favorite forgetful fish, Dory, starts to remember bits about her family and where she's from. Along with Marlin and Nemo, she travels across the ocean in search of her family and the life she once had. So, is Finding Dory and instant classic like Finding Nemo?

    While Finding Dory may not be as grand as Finding Nemo, it is still a very enjoyable experience. For the most part, director Andrew Stanton (who also directed 2003's Nemo) is able to recapture the magic of the original film and introduce an expansive cast of new and interesting characters. 
   The best thing about this film is that it doesn't feel forced. They took the popularity of Dory and capitalized on it in an organic way. Finding Dory felt like a very natural progression to the story of Finding Nemo. There are so many sequels out there that don't work simply because they feel too forced. While Finding Nemo didn't necessarily need a sequel, it was welcome.
   One of the most notable things about Finding Nemo was how fun and creative it was. Finding Dory continues that trend, despite the 13-year gap between films, though none of the scenes quite match the wonderfulness of the shark Bruce and the fish eating intervention. Idris Elba as Fluke the Sea Lion was one of the standouts in the film, despite being limited to only one or two scenes. Ellen DeGeneres was perfect as the voice of Dory, just as she was in the original. In addition, Kaitlin Olson as Destiny the Whale Shark was also entertaining. This whale shark was one that fit into this series well, and she provided some truly funny moments.
   While the film was satisfying, it did have its flaws. Particularly with the character of Hank the Octopus. You could tell that he was supposed to be a new addition to this family consisting of Nemo, Marlin, and Dory, but he just didn't fit. While the character never detracted from the film, he didn't really add to it either. He was just kind of there. While he did have some humorous scenes, as a character he just wasn't that interesting. Ed O'Neill did a good job voicing the character, unfortunately, Hank was just a bit bland. 
   Many people remember Finding Nemo because of how emotional it was. There were so many lessons to be learned in that film, and it was just an emotional rollercoaster. Finding Dory, while it does have a few emotional scenes, wasn't quite on the level of  its predecessor. Yes it had valuable lessons, and seeing where Dory was from was interesting, but as a whole it was simply good, not great.
   Finding Dory was a really well-done sequel to Finding Nemo. It may not have quite reached the same emotional level, but it was a really fun time at the movies. Fluke the Sea Lion and Destiny the Whale Shark were great additions. However, Hank the Octopus just wasn't that interesting. Finding Dory may not have been needed, but it was an enjoyable experience. To echo what I said earlier, it's fun, it's emotional (though not as much as Nemo), and it's charming. If you liked Finding Nemo, then you'll like Finding Dory.
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8/10

​   So what'd you think of Finding Dory? Did it live up to your expectations? Let me know by commenting on this post! Also, if you enjoyed this review, share it on Facebook and Twitter! Don't forget, I post every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, so check back then for more movie reviews and miscellaneous movie thoughts! 

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