Ralph Breaks the Internet

Set six year after the events shown in 'Wreck-it Ralph' this film provides another adventure for Ralph and Venellope. Their arcade has been connected to the internet but the characters are warned to stay away; however when Venellope's game breaks the two friends must brave the internet to acquire the necessary part. They find it on eBay but after some reckless bidding they need to earn the money fast. This leads to many adventures, including taking part in a dangerous racing game, Ralph creating a series of viral memes and Venellope encountering the Disney Princesses while fleeing from Stormtroopers! As Venellope contemplates staying there, their friendship is strained and Ralph takes action that could damage the entire internet.

I really enjoyed this film although it must be said that many of the gags are aimed firmly at older viewers and some moments might be a little scary for younger fans. These moments include times of physical danger as well as emotional worries as Ralph and Venellope's friendship is tested. The numerous references to various internet sites are likely to go over the heads of younger viewers and the way it is hammered home that Disney now owns Star Wars and Marvel franchises isn't too subtle... even though I confess to rather enjoying the former. The gags, including many visual gags, come think and fast... I'm sure one would have to watch the film a few times to spot them all. As one would expect the animation looks great; the depiction of the internet is impressively immersive; I particularly liked the scenes that took place in the 'Slaughter Race' game. The characters are solid, Venellope is the more fun of the returning characters, Ralph is a bit too clingy at times... although the plot demands that to create the interesting situations. There are several good new characters; personal favourites being Shank, a race driver; and J.P. Spamley a 'pop-up pusher'. Overall I'd certainly recommend this to animation fans.