'The Mitchells Vs The Machines (2021)' is an energetic, mile-a-minute family drama from producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller (whose work includes '21 Jump Street (2012)', 'The Lego Movie (2014)' and 'Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018)') that aims to prove that Sony Pictures Animation isn't just a one-trick pony (the aforementioned web-slinging surprise hit). It's definitely hyperactive, playing with 'internet culture' in a way that almost confirms stereotypes about modern day reduced attention spans. It doesn't dampen the experience, though; it just means that you have to adjust to its quick, almost unforgiving pace. Having said that, the story itself is actually rather slow to get going (it feels often unrelenting in the moment because there is often so much stuff packed into so little space). It's also a tad long on the whole and is, generally speaking, really predictable. These issues don't mean that the movie isn't entertaining, though. It's rather fun when it gets going and its characters feel relatively rounded. There are a handful of exciting set-pieces and the jokes land more often than they flop (though there are some cringe-worthy moments, for sure). The thing is also beautiful from a technical point of view. It's animation is lively, believable and full of joy. Actually watching the picture is enjoyable in and of itself. Overall, it's a solid animated effort with just about the right balance of humour and heart. 7/10.
