Incredibles 2

Tropic Sprockets by Ian Brockway

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Fourteen years later, Brad Bird’s sequel to the rightfully beloved “Incredibles,” is here and not a moment too soon.

Thankfully, this chapter is as lively and festive as the original and does not disappoint. Eye-popping color, sight gags and self-deprecating humor is in force and there is never a dull moment. The momentum steadily increases throughout with even a slight pull on the heartstrings.

The Parr family is back and they are alerted (despite being declared illegal) to stop Underminer (John Ratzenberger) from robbing a bank.

After saving the day, Helen (Holly Hunter) is contacted by millionaire Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk) who wants her to spearhead an initiative to rescind the ban on superheroes.

Helen is thrilled but Bob (Craig T. Nelson) feels slighted. After all, he has always done the exciting stuff. Helen asks him to be a house-husband and take care of the family in her absence.

Bob reluctantly consents.

The intrigue is in the concept that the film can be read in light of the TimesUp movement. Where once women were regulated to a secondary position, now they are leaders. Females have moved to the fore.

With the family newly installed in a sprawling home that uncannily resembles Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, Helen takes care of business, doing battle with the comically scary and leather suited Screenslaver (Bill Wise) a hybrid of Rubber Man from “American Horror Story” and Bane from “The Dark Knight Rises.”

Things go well until Helen tangles with Evelyn (Catherine Keener), Winston’s embittered sister, and events go from fast to furious.

The Parr baby, Jack Jack (Eli Fucile) is wonderful and provides the best in the film. His unparalleled entrance is madcap, surreal and free wheeling, recalling the joyful mania of Lewis Black’s character in the animated hit “Inside Out.” Jack Jack’s face off with a stubborn raccoon who wants his dinner, is not to be missed. This segment is a stand alone film in itself and it is destined to become a classic.

Also interesting is the concept of individuality. Eccentricity and superheroes from other countries are celebrated here. This is especially meaningful given our national immigration debate. The underlying message of this cheerful sequel is one of absolute inclusion. It is to be commended the film does so beautifully, without a trace of dogma, forced attitude or self righteousness.

Unfailingly positive, gleeful and spirited, this sequel is nonstop fun that will produce an abundance of giggles. “Incredibles 2” is a solid addition to the Pixar canon that includes “Finding Nemo” and “Toy Story.”

Write Ian at ianfree11@yahoo.com