"Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming." The popular quote from the fan-favorite character Dory of the 2003 movie "Finding Nemo" is one that is constantly used even to this day. Whether it's simply used as a reference to the classic movie or as a metaphor for life, I know it's personally a quote that always catches my eye. As a '90s baby myself, "Finding Nemo" was a part of my childhood that I don't think I'll ever forget.
With the anticipation of the release of its sequel, "Finding Dory" on June 17, the buzz from my generation has been nonstop. After all, attempting to continue such an iconic movie is certainly daring. After seeing the movie myself (at the first available viewing of course) I couldn't help but think about how much the movie connected to myself and my generation.
To start, being a '90s kid likely means "Finding Nemo" was part of your childhood. The friendly clownfish came into my life somewhere around 2nd grade, and though it's been 13 years since then, he's still a welcomed face. Nothing feels quite like home than an old movie you watched when life seemed much simpler.
Looking back now, the original movie speaks to me on new levels than it did when my young self first saw it. The love and reunion between Nemo and Marlin is all too familiar to how I feel when I come back home to my family after a long time being away at college. It's true when they say that distance makes the heart grow fonder, because college has definitely given me a new love for being home with my family and one that is certainly relatable to Nemo. So of course the connection I've had to "Finding Nemo" naturally has given me an undeniable connection to "Finding Dory."
"Finding Dory" unexpectedly pulled on my heartstrings when it was brought up that Dory had lost and forgot her own parents. As outrageous as that concept may seem in a literal sense, becoming an adult has made me think more about how eventually my parents won't always be there. Being fortunate enough to have them by my side every step of the way so far is something I don't take for granted, and seeing Dory have to fend for herself without hers for so long spoke to me.
Another thing that really stood out to me? When Dory realized that Nemo and Marlin weren't just her friends, but also her family. As corny and cliche as it may come across, I have truly found my second family in many of the friendships I have made. My friends are not simply friends. They are my support system and home away from home.
The final part of "Finding Dory" that every '90s kid can relate to is Dory's realization that she can do anything she sets her mind to, even remember things. We have all had our low points and doubt in our own capabilities, but this new animated film serves as a clear reminder that anything is possible if you work hard enough. As our generation is slowly making our way into the "real world," that's a pretty reassuring thought.
Thank you Dory for never letting me forget to, "just keep swimming."
