It’s the next inevitable step for an industry that refuses to try new ideas. Adapt a film that utilizes voice-over so “star” power is no longer or rarely necessary. If star power is no longer necessary, studios don’t have to shell out millions of dollars to have that one actor everyone likes. On the other hand, it would probably be a good idea to utilize a medium that has an established history and decent fan base. Oh, wait, video games have that!
Ratchet & Clank is directed by Jericca Cleland and Kevin Munroe. It stars James Arnold Taylor and David Kaye. Two unlikely heroes struggle to stop the vile Chairman Drek from destroying every planet in the Solana Galaxy. During their adventure, they stumble upon that weapon that can destroy every planet, forcing them to team up with colorful heroes called The Galactic Rangers. In time, they learn about heroism, friendship and all those good lessons parents don’t have time to teach their kids anymore.
I need to go into a little back story because Ratchet and Clank was one of those games I never got into as a kid. Ratchet is a Lombax (feline-like) mechanic and Clank is a sentient robot. Their game series is recognized for their collection of many unique over-the-top weapons and gadgets. They’re also doing a remake for the Playstation 4 to be released in 2016. How convenient! Furthermore, there is an interesting naming scheme for their games, including Up your Arsenal, Going Commando and Size Matters.
As an FYI for fans of the game, series creators Insomniac Games helped with the film’s production, screenplay, character development and animation.
For what the trailer offers, it looks similar to other animated films, which is to say, very good. There are a bunch of words you can use like breathtaking, gorgeous, or delightful. Voice work seems on-point and there is even some word play reminiscent of the games, like “kick some asteroid”. Additionally, you have the likes of John Goodman and Rosario Dawson in the cast. Like the games, there are some weapons you might like such as the sheepinator, the gun that turns people into sheep. There are other guns that Ratchet is handling but it doesn’t show what he’s shooting so that might be something to look forward to as well!
Ratchet and Clank opens April 29th 2016 in U.S. theaters. The Netherlands get an early April 20th 2016 release and Greece gets an April 28th 2016 release. There are currently no other dates to speak of.
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