mm mm good!

What a wonderful movie! This one defines "feel-good". Everyone in this was outstanding. I don't think I've ever wanted two characters to get together more than I have Keri Russell and Nathan Filion's. Andy Griffith was charming and greatly cast against type as a bit of a grump, Jeremy Sisto was just mean enough so that you disliked him and there was an undercurrent of danger but not so much as to darken the story, and Cheryl Hines and Adrienne Shelly were absolutely wonderful as Russell's fellow waitresses. Eddie Jemison also shined as Ogie, he was absolutely hilarious. And don't forget the pies, they looked so yummy. Shelly's death was a horrible tragedy, but I can't think of a better memorial than this sweet, funny movie. She did an amazing job as writer and director; I was smiling the whole time. Really, really wonderful!

Pixar really is amazing. I've yet to see one of their films that was not only technically amazing, but that had a wonderful story to boot. "Ratatouille" continues their track record of making all-ages movies that are smart, funny, and just downright good storytelling. I was at about 4 stars, but then came the big finale in preparing Anton Ego's meal, and it took the movie over the top. You can't go wrong with a smart movie about the value of friendship, family, and the importance of being true to yourself and who you are. And this has got to be the first animated film that hinges on an illigitimate son and paternity testing. Great, great movie!