With Sony, Marvel and DC all filling the theaters with superhero films for the next six years, we might be reaching a saturation point for men in spandex ... but this weekend's "Big Hero 6" sets itself apart from the rest of the pack.
The film, from Walt Disney Animation Studios, is a wonderful flick that any kid, parent or general comic fan will love. Loosely based on a Marvel comic of the same name, the movie revolves around a teen who becomes unlikely allies with a robot and a group of college brainiacs after a personal tragedy shocks them all.
We can't recommend this one enough -- but if you still need more convincing, check out the five biggest reasons you should see it this weekend!
1.) Diversity Is Key
The movie is probably one of the most diverse Disney has ever made -- and that's one of its biggest strengths. Reflecting the world more realistically than the white male-dominated cinematic universes already in place for both Marvel and DC, "Big Hero 6" stars an Asian-American character, an African-American and two women, one of whom is also Asian.
It's something toofab's Brian Particelli talked to the cast about at length during the junket, where they all agreed it was an important step in the right direction and something we should be seeing more often.
2.) School Is Cool
While they're part of an "Avengers"-like team, the kids in this movie don't actually have much that's "super" about them. They have no powers or mutations that give them the upper-hand, instead relying on their brains to save the day.
By creating supersuits based around their strengths, you could call them a team of Tony Starks ... minus the narcissism. It's an empowering message to send to kids -- that they too can achieve greatness through studying and hard work.
3.) BAYMAX
Just like every little kid wanted a stuff Olaf for Christmas after "Frozen" last year, BAYMAX will be very in-demand. With his Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man appearance, child-like innocence and overall adorableness, the robot steals every scene he's in.
Perfectly voiced by "30 Rock" alum Scott Adsit, BAYMAX is the Iron Giant of this generation ... and that's a very good thing.
Check out our interview with the awesome android above!
4.) I Heart San Fransokyo
A mix of San Francisco and Tokyo, the fictional world of "Big Hero 6" is simply stunning. Taking the best of both cities, San Fransokyo is even more vibrant and colorful than its Japanese inspiration and just as picturesque as the City by the Bay.
There's one sequence in particular, when BAYMAX takes Hiro on a flight over the cityscape, that will leave you in awe. It's a triumph of animation.
5.) It's Like Your Favorite Superhero Films, but Not
While it hits a lot of the same beats standard in superhero films, it does it in a new and totally refreshing way.
You'll definitely see influences from "The Iron Giant," "Guardians of the Galaxy," "The Incredibles," "Avengers" and more, but "Big Hero 6" puts its own unique spin on some familiar tropes that make it feel refreshing and new.
Plus, it's the last superhero film until "Age of Ultron" in May ... something's gotta hold you over til then!
Want more "Big Hero 6" goodness? See more from our interview with the cast below to find out what they'd want in a supersuit in real life and if they'd be game for a sequel!
