Opened: June 9, 2006

Directed by: John Lasseter

Starring: Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt, Larry the Cable Guy, Tony Shalhoub, Cheech Marin, Michael Wallis, George Carlin, Paul Dooley, Jenifer Lewis, Guido Quaroni, Richard Petty, Michael Keaton, Katherine Helmond, John Ratzenberger, Joe Ranft, Jeremy Piven, Bob Costas, Darrell Waltrip, Humpy Wheeler, Lynda Petty, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Michael Schumacher, Tom Magliozzi, Ray Magliozzi, Richard Kind, Edie McClurg, Lindsey Collins, Elissa Knight, Mario Andretti, Sarah Clark, Jay Leno, Jonas Rivera, E.J. Holowicki, Adrian Ochoa, Lou Romano, Jess Harnell, Mike Nelson, Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Dave Foley, Billy Crystal & John Goodman

Creating a world of anthropomorphic vehicles, Cars may not have the most relatable protagonist, but its story still packs a punch.

On the way to Los Angeles for a tiebreaker race for the Piston Cup, rookie Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) gets lost off Route 66 and destroys the road of small-town Radiator Springs. Under the watch of Doc Hudson (Paul Newman), Lightning must repave the road before he can leave.

Fantastically voiced by Wilson, Lightning is a stereotypical hot shot, which makes it hard for him to win the audience over. However, Radiator Springs gives him a transformative experience with an ensemble of colorful characters. Newman’s final theatrical role is a perfectly suited mentor.

Compared to other Pixar films, this isn’t as deeply explored but the fast-pace and racing scenes will thrill audiences.

Final say: Put this into gear. ★★★★☆