this is a story about friendship and inclusion, told in a kind of old-fashioned, comfortable way; It may not be a masterpiece, but its message is one that can't be expressed enough. "Luca" expresses it in a gorgeous, fun way
the film is lovely and funny; "Luca", despite its vagueness, successfully pull off some of the usual Pixar tricks, provoking warm tears and weary sighs as one considers the familiar trajectories of life
Pixar's high standards of storytelling and animation are on full display, but what's refreshing about "Luca" is that it doesn't yank on the tear ducts like some Pixar titles have done
Pixar recaptures a lot of the magic and heart that its animations are known for while providing a lovely, heartwarming character journey; It's a wonderful coming of age story with a nice message that balances deep emotions and a lot of adventurous fun
it's not canonical Pixar, but it's as sweet and satisfying as artisanal gelato on a summer afternoon; The Genoa native's obvious deep-rooted affection for life in simpler times on Italy's northwest coast gives the movie a warming injection of real heart
it's a visually beguiling small-town nostalgia trip, as well as a perfectly pleasant fish-out-of-water fable -- literally, since it's about a boy sea monster who longs to go ashore
it may not be the best Pixar movie... but "Luca" is also one of the precious few that feels like it isn't afraid to be something else; it's also one of the most grounded and enjoyable coming-of-age stories the studio has ever told
Enrico Casarosa's film includes some piquant thoughts on education, family, bravery and fear. But, more than anything, it is an irresistible ode to a region and its culture. Watching it is like relaxing in the sunshine
director Enrico Casarosa and the vast Pixar animation army have delivered a gorgeous and lovely coming-of-age fantasy with plenty of slapstick laughs, the obligatory heartwarming family moments and a friendship for the ages
as you get immersed in the story, you're also entranced by a lovely escape to a nostalgic Italian summer that's inspired by visits to real-life places and rendered in a style akin to that distinctive Miyazaki aesthetic
another reliably slick combination of the Pixar playbook elements we've come to know so well, it's a gentle, calming whisper that grows faint once it's over
another one of Pixar's wondrous and warm creations; a fantastical tale that's deeply rooted in human emotion and quandary; kids and parents alike will enjoy this fishy tale of tolerance; the animation of "Luca" is a visual delight
a strange hybrid of Italian neorealism and fish-based fantasy, Luca is beautiful to behold but plays it too safe to make a real impact. Still, great CG linguine
"Luca" is sweet and affecting; the narrative feels fresh; The writers certainly nail the big emotions of the piece, from a shocking betrayal to a series of satisfying, sentimental story beats that wrap up the film
by Randy Myers [San Jose Mercury News ]
by Mae Abdulbaki [ScreenRant ]
by Benjamin Lee [The Guardian ]
by Katie Walsh [Tribune News Service ]
