Okay, so I know that superhero powers, suits, and action shots are part of what makes “The Incredibles” such a Pixar classic. These factors have also probably contributed to the 37 (and counting) times I’ve fully sat through the film. But upon watching “The Incredibles” with greater maturity and knowledge, I’ve come to realize that it consists of more substance than many children’s action movies. Even as I continue to mature and learn, I don’t foresee my favorite movie changing any time soon (although I can’t make any promises considering “The Incredibles 2” has yet to come out). Here are the reasons “The Incredibles” is truly incredible (pun intended).
1. Elastagirl.
Need I say more?
Her fierce insistence on participating in the action is empowering, impressive, and refreshing. Although Mr. Incredible’s insistence that she stays safe out of his love for her is sweet, she refuses to miss a good fight scene. And I respect that! Out of the many children’s movies Pixar has created, Elastagirl is probably one of the strongest female characters in their repertoire. The writers took female confidence, assertiveness, and power, and made it attractive.
(The same could be said about Frozone's wife, who was regrettably never shown in the film and authors the single best line in the entire movie).
2. Be nice to people.
Syndrome’s entire rise to power is due to Mr. Incredible’s adamant refusal to accept Buddy's help. Of course, had Buddy become his sidekick, there wouldn't have been a movie in the first place; still, the plot promotes a committed acceptance of those who offer you help. After all, you never know who might just destroy your city because of your stubbornness.
3. Marital troubles.
Although Dash and Jack-Jack are too young to fully understand the implications of Mr. Incredible's frequent conferences, committed exercise, purchase of a new sports car, and a strand of blonde hair on his supersuit, the writers effectively crafted a situation that implies unfaithfulness, which thickens the plot line, jeopardizes their otherwise successful marriage, and sweetens their defeat of the villain.
A message to the ladies: don't let your significant others trick you into believing that their pursuit of societal welfare is a side gal.
4. They strive to be normal.
“The Incredibles” is an ironic title for a family who wants nothing more than to be average. In our millennial, social-media-driven, competitive era, it is admirable that people could want so badly to succumb to a mundane suburban life (although I suppose the supers were legally required to stay hidden). College and job applications typically ask, "A position at our institution/company is highly sought. What makes you different from the 5,000 other applicants?" Super powers surely wouldn't be a bad quality to list on a resume, but the Parr family refuses to receive any recognition (leaving poor Dash on the sidelines of the track field).
5. Challenging the status quo.
Mr. Incredible's position at an insurance company under direction of a boss who likes to make money by cheating customers is rather contrary to his previous work history of saving lives. Eventually, his refusal to play by the rules costs him his job, but defies a system of unfairness and deceitfulness.
6. A designer's vision.
Edna's persistence that implies the Incredibles' eventual rise to stardom is what ultimately facilitate their success in defeating Syndrome. Edna persuades Helen to find Bob, spends time carefully creating new, durable suits for the Incredibles, and her vision for the family serves as a base of external support for their endeavors.
Also, Edna mode.
If any of you haven't watched this timeless classic, I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. I will be spending the next year or so anxiously awaiting the arrival of the second movie.
