Cars 2 zoomed into theatres on June 24, much to the anticipated delight of little McQueen fans. Steering away from the serene backdrop of Radiator Springs, the international espionage film takes the audience on a visually stunning adventure across the world, full of action, suspense and humour. Only, this sequel adds a bit of twist. It isn't Lightning McQueen who saves the day, but rather, his unsuspecting friend Tow Mater.

The friendship between McQueen and Mater is certainly put to the test as McQueen enters the first ever World Grand Prix and decides to take his good friend with him. From Tokyo to Paris, the European Riviera to London, Mater and McQueen set out on a mission to prove that McQueen can beat his European rival Francesco Bernoulli (pronounced with a very thick Italian accent). The storyline takes a quick turn as Mater unknowingly becomes tangled up in a top secret operation, one which could lead McQueen to his unfortunate demise.

With all the twists and turns, Cars 2 easily appeals to those seeking action and suspense. It has most certainly veered into an entirely different genre than its predecessor. The movie boasts incredible imagery that is remarkably life-like, and a wonderfully talented cast, including Owen Wilson, Larry the Cable Guy and, my personal favourite, Michael Caine. And, while some scenes may have been a little loud and explosive for the younger ones, the general message behind the storyline evoked that of the original Cars movie. That what is most important in life is not coming out on top as the winner or the wealthiest or the most famous. What really counts is being true to yourself and holding on to those relationships that make your life richer. It's about lending a helping hand whenever you can and showing that you care. Can you fuel the love?



My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the movie and even more so sitting next to her friend Little Boo. We were fortunate enough to have him and his mother, author of Raising My Boys, join us for an advance screening last week. It was great to see our two kids completely enthralled by the action on-screen. When we left the theatre, my daughter had a big smile on her face which made it quite clear that she loved the movie. I honestly felt the same way, too.

Disclosure: I was invited to the advance screening of Cars 2 by Walt Disney Studios Motions Pictures Canada in order to facilitate this review. The opinions expressed in this post are my own.