Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 3 hauled in a big toy chest full of cash this weekend. Estimated at $109 million, it was 10th biggest opening weekend in US history,
and the 2nd highest for animated film, behind only Shrek the Third. And with a 99% on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear that this will be a rare double-whammy – a critically-lauded film that hits it big at the box office.
But not all critics fell in love with the film, and the two dissenting opinions are from Armond White at the New York Press (who didn’t like WALL-e or Up either) and Cole Smithey, the self-appointed “Smartest Film Critic in the World.” It’s a curiosity more than anything, but I find it interesting to inspect why this 1% falls outside the norm. Here’s what they said:
Armond White – 2.5 stars out of 5
“…a bored game that only the brainwashed will buy into.”
“…humor depends on the recognition of worn-out toys.”
“…it’s for non-thinking children and adults.”
Cole Smithey – 2 stars out of of 5
“…inappropriately cruel.”
“…too intense for younger children.”
“…Wrongheaded and overtly mature for young audiences.”
*** UPDATE ***
I probably should have hinted at my side on this issue. I’m merely fanning the flames, as any blogger worth his weight would do, but I surely support any critic’s right to bash whatever they want when the want. I’m more interested here in the way Pixar’s rabid fans aren’t having any of it. It speaks to something that might go beyond just “fandom” into something more holy.
Also, read Smithey’s reply to the fur that’s flown over the issue.