Cars 3

Lightning McQueen has it all - a loving Porsche girlfriend, a supportive group of friends from the small town of Radiator Springs, great memories of a former mentor who happened to be one of the greatest racers who ever lived, and fame found through the racetrack. He's living the good life, and doesn't see an end in sight. Until, that is, a new generation of race cars led by a hotshot named Jackson Storm come up in the ranks who are faster, and more capable on the track. As McQueen's old friends are slowly driven to retirement one by one, he struggles to remain relevant and show everyone that he still belongs. He eventually seeks out the help of Cruz Ramirez, a young trainer who once had dreams of her own of being a racer from growing up watching McQeen's career take off. Cruz Ramirez and Lightning McQueen work together to beat Jackson Storm and prove once and for all that they belong.

The Cars franchise isn't my favorite Pixar franchise, but for the most part I've enjoyed all three. Cars 3 gives Lightning McQueen a fitting - although somewhat predictable - checkered flag to his story and paves the way for a possible new generation of stories. Of course, it's nowhere near as good as the first one, but it holds its own well. I loved seeing Mater and the gang all show up again one last time. I'm not ashamed to admit I almost got a little emotional after realizing Pixar brought back the character of Hudson Hornet, voiced by Paul Newman, (in my opinion one of the best actors in Hollywood) who passed away back in 2008. From what I understand, the director took recordings from the first Cars movie that was both unused lines as well as recorded conversations between Paul and the director about Paul's love of racing, and used that to bring back the character of Hudson Hornet to life.

Pixar's best known for their uncanny ability to make animated movies that both kids and adults can enjoy. Cars 3 continues this tradition by making a good balance between good, clean comedy for both kids and adults, and more serious, yet teachable moments. It was good to see Pixar continuing to stick with that formula.

All in all, Cars 3 is a wonderful ending to the Cars franchise. There is a (very) small part of me that wonders whether a fourth - or more- installment or spinoffs would be good to see, but for now I think it would be best to let it rest. If you get the chance, especially if you have young kids, go see Cars 3.