Cars 3 (June 16, 2017)

This is the third and (currently) final sequel to Cars with development beginning immediately after the release of Cars 2 in 2011. The basic plot of the film finds Lightning McQueen setting out to prove to a new generation of high-tech race cars that he is still the best race car in the world. Its plot is really lead-footed in its drive of the message that Lightning is old both literally and figuratively, no match for the young guns entering the racing circuit with their advanced technologies and racing techniques. It does not appear, however, that much time has passed since the second film. In real life, the best racers can continue to compete at a high level for well over a decade or more, so I think it is a great exaggeration to keep insinuating that McQueen is an ancient. That being said, this storyline does feel like the logical extension to his story as athletes all must eventually face the end of their careers. But Lightning wishes to do it on his terms, a chance his late mentor, Doc Hudson, never go the chance to do. The racing is exhilarating and exciting as always, a return to the forefront after the detour of the previous sequel. The precious moments Lightning spends in reverie over his mentor are the highlights of the film, showing a side we have rarely seen from the sarcastic and self-assured hotshot racer. And when he follows in the footsteps of his mentor it just feels right. I do, however, have some criticisms about the film. First is Cruz Ramirez, Lightning’s coach turned protégée, who I do not like despite her sob story backstory of being too insecure to race. She is timid, naïve, and rude towards Lightning for a majority of the film. Frankly, he helps her more than she helps him. Second,

(which includes a spoiler for the ending of the film)

I do not like that Lighting was not able to finish his, seemingly, final race, instead handing that honor to Cruz. While narratively, it makes sense, it just does not sit right with me. It would have been more poetic and honoring of the first film if he had finished what he started. Overall, I really enjoyed Cars 3, a mostly satisfying conclusion to a franchise so close to my heart.

Final Rating: 7.5/10