Pixar’s ‘Dinosaur’ is better than good

I grew up watching “The Flintstones”, a modern stone-age family. They had all the conveniences of modern life, but they also got to hang out with dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. Man, how I wanted to live in a world where one could use a brontosaurus to move boulders or a pterodactyl as a phonograph needle. After seeing “The Good Dinosaur”, I think human life among the dinosaur would probably be kind of crappy.

”The Good Dinosaur” imagines life on Earth had the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs missed. Dinosaurs learn to speak English and farm their own food. In this idyllic setting, we find Arlo, a young dinosaur with a fantastic fear of everything. When Arlo gets washed down a river, he must bond with a tiny human he names Spot, in order to survive. As Arlo and Spot journey, and bond of real love forms, and “The Good Dinosaur” becomes something more than just an entertaining kiddie flick.

Pixar is well-known for making multi-layered movies that both children and adults can enjoy. “The Good Dinosaur” upholds Pixar’s reputation. The laughs, jokes and character antics will entertain the kids, while older viewers will connect with the emotional meat of the piece.

The main story of “Dinosaur” sees Arlo come of age and face his fears. He learns much from Spot, who full of way more courage than a body that small should be able to hold. The two of them learn to trust one another. It’s wonderful to watch their friendship blossom.

Arlo and Spot make their journey through some very beautiful scenery. The vistas look so realistic that you could swear some of them are photographs. The characters are beautifully rendered, their skin textured in a way that you want to reach out and touch. It’s truly amazing what artists and animators can accomplish and put on screen.

As far as flaws, I wish there were a few more laughs aimed at adults. The movie isn’t interested in doing anything you wouldn’t expect. I wasn’t overly impressed with the musical score. But it’s easy to overlook these flaws and get lost in the way “Dinosaur” makes you feel.

In the end, “The Good Dinosaur” is a great time for kids, and adults will appreciate the emotional depth. The relationship between Arlo and Spot works really well, and you can’t help but pull for Arlo as he battles his fears. Visually, this film is an absolute treat. “The Good Dinosaur” may not make you want to live with dinosaurs, like “The Flintstones” did. But it will move you emotionally, and that’s more important.

4 Indy Fedoras out of 5

MPAA rating: PG