Cars (2006) is a Disney/Pixar production directed by John Lasseter and co-directed by Joe Ranft, who died before the film was released. We will be studying the film at least partly because I have seen it at least 100 times, sat with my son at home and have subsequently noticed just about everything that can be said about it. Yes, I know I am very sad indeed but I don't care...kachow!

A few key ideas to be considering as we make our journey (no pun intended but it is a road movie) through the film. Firstly and as with most Disney related texts, there is a huge amount of media synergy on display. Check out some of the following merchandise related links:

Toys R Us

All Aboard Toys

Games Animation Forum

Amazon

Sheryl Crow

Cars is also a computer animated film and according to John Lasseter, Pixar films follow the same theme of self improvement. With the help of friends or family, a character ventures out into the real world and learns to appreciate his friends and family. At the core, according to John Lasseter, "it's gotta be about the growth of the main character, and how he changes."



Until 2005, Pixar remained an independent company although for years beforehand, they were at least partially in partnership with Disney. Notably, Disney have retained the Pixar brand name as part of their new releases. The addition of the Disney brand complicates the brand persona of Pixar as Disney is the subject of considerable debate, concerning the brand image and the ethical implications associated with its business model. Check out this article, which uses Naomi Klein's seminal book, No Logo to begin making the case against Disney, with reference to 'lifestyle branding.'

Tasks



1. Watch the opening sequence of Cars (x3) in the WJEC manner and make notes on the following:
- Editing
- Style of animation/palette
- Use of sound
- Narrative
- Introduction of characters
2. To what extent is Cars allegorical in its storytelling? If so, what is the film saying about the real world? Does this relate to ideologies and belief systems? Check out our forum here on exactly this issue.
3. The technique of personification is used, whereby inanimate cars suddenly take on human characteristics. Is this just a narrative device or does it relate to marketing?
4. To what extent do you think that Lightning McQueen & Chick Hicks are 'archetypal,' according to Propp's theory.
5. How important is star persona in the promotion of this film? For instance, Paul Newman is the voice behind Doc Hudson and Owen Wilson is Lightning.
6. What key representational issues are prevalent in Cars? For instance, think about stereotypes associated with the American deep south, (Mater) Italians, (Luigi & Guido) and the black-rap associations inferred by Wingo, Boost, DJ & Snotrod.
7. Who exactly is the audience for this text and how would you justify your thoughts with reference to the text itself?

NING FORUM

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