Directors: Kevin Munroe, Jericca Cleland.
Voices by: James Arnold Taylor, David Kaye, Jim Ward, Paul Giamatti, John Goodman, Bella Thorne, Sylvester Stallone.
I have to admit, there's a danger I might be slightly biased as I am fan of the game series, especially Ratchet & Clank 3: Up Your Arsenal. The games were great fun, like a cross between MDK and Crash Bandicoot but with awesome and some silly weaponry. Now the question is, does the film reflect the game and actually succeed in being a good film unlike all of the game to film predecessors which I covered in greater detail in a previous blog 'Games On The Screen'. Let's look at what makes a Ratchet & Clank game and see what's missing from the Ratchet & Clank film. Firstly it's based on the first release with a few tweaks and extra characters to beef out the story. It's good to hear the familiar voices from the game instead of replacements of big Hollywood names. Instead the Hollywood names go to the additional roster with Paul Giamatti, John Goodman and Sly Stallone. Ratchet regulars James Arnold Taylor, David Kaye and Jim Ward all return as their respected roles. Massive bolt bonus there! It's give us the back story of the haphazardly heroes and how they meet, Ratchet being the foxy, gremlin looking Lombax mechanic and Clank being the ever-polite, mini defected robot. We join their quest in trying to save the Galaxy with the help of the additional Galactic Rangers. (Brax reminded me of Raphael the ninja turtle.) Drek returns but I suppose for planned sequel purposes Dr. Nefarious has a key role unlike the first game. Ratchet's arsenal and Clank's gadgetry was a massive element of the games, if not the key to the successful gameplay. Now there's a lack of omniwrench bashing and only makes a brief appearance; in fact, there's a lack of use of cool guns, gadgets and overall action. I expect more from an animated action film, especially from this title where the heroes specialise in destruction and bolt collecting. I wanted to see more of the sheepinator (one of my fave guns.) The game's sarcastic humour is there and Cpt. Quark's idiocy provides plenty of comedy. Non-players might find this unnecessary or silly but it's all part of the game. I don't think it's going to get the recognition it deserves like all other game films but It is a great adaption, even though it misses all the bolts and action which might make it boring especially for non-gamers. Kids might find the colourful characters and silly antics fun but I'm assuming the new game will be much more fun to play. The new game mirrors this film in a paradox kinda way, sharing cutscenes from the movie and I'm tempted to buy it. Probably only for fans of the game, which is meant to be but we need more bolt bashing and some awesome action.
Running Time: 6
The Cast: 9
Performance: 7
Direction: 6
Story: 7
Script: 7
Creativity: 4
Soundtrack: 4
Job Description: 6
The Extra Bonus Point: 5 for keeping the original voice cast.
61% 6/10
