[BrotherMan]

I thought the Solo was okay. There's nothing really wrong with it. But it didn't do anything really spectacular either. I mean, not like Rogue One. The big critique I've hard a couple of places is that it doesn't give the character anywhere to grow. When viewed with an eye towards the series (not just this one film) you won't be surprised when he shows up at the end. He's not just the selfish scoundrel out for the money. You all ready know he's got that big soft heart. But that's a bit too meta for me.

So. That's Solo.

I've also seen't the Incredibles 2. Now, I have to say this first: The Incredibles is, like, my favorite movie. I was totes okay with there never being a sequel. That said:

It's hard to fight the notion that Mr Incredible is Superman. Analogous to be sure - as in, he's the per-eminent superhero of that universe. But any comparison should end there. He is not altruistic. Heck, by the time we get to know him I'm not totally convinced he's heroic. Dude has some anger issues, right?

He doesn't get any better in the new movie. I mean, on one hand, okay sure. He's human. Capable of good, and often does good for its own sake. But every so often you get that selfish butthole who just enjoys punching things.

In beautiful contrast, there's Elastigirl. I love watching her work. And I love that I get to see more of her doing her thing. Man, after watching Incredibles 2, I really want an Elastigirl Prequel.

But, putting that aside: What about the movie? I really enjoyed it. It's not as clean or as put together as the first one. I like the main story, even if it does feel like we've seen it before. I enjoyed the antics of the side stories, for the most part. But put all together it's not quite as cohesive. It's a romping great visit with the Parrs (et al) though.

What keeps happening in both movies is that the underpinning philosophical debate gets short shrifted. They both ask great questions but the answer is, basically, POW BOFF BOOM. (Should society allow people with special abilities to showcase them for the benefit of the society? Do we really need them to?)