PIXAR SHORT FILMS COLLECTION : VOLUME 2 – The Blu Review

Disney•Pixar is known for their amazing storytelling, and their second batch of shorts, PIXAR SHORT FILMS COLLECTION: VOLUME 2 is no exception. These shorts are so fantastic, the only problem that you might have is picking out your favorite.

From Disney•Pixar, the Award-winning studio behind ‘Toy Story,’ ‘Up’ and ‘WALL•E,’ comes a new collection of short films. Experience the revolutionary animation and unforgettable characters with 12 short films together for the very first time. This must-own collection also features seven rarely screened student films from directors John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton, and Pete Docter. Available on Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on November 13, “Pixar Short Films Collection: Volume 2” will delight audiences of all ages.

Disney•Pixar always provides the best viewing experience that it can, and PIXAR SHORT FILMS COLLECTION: VOLUME 2 is no exception. The flawless 1080p transfer makes for a fun viewing experience. The audio switches between DTS-HD 5.1, DTS-HD 7.1 and Dolby Digital 5.1 mixes, which leave things a bit more inconsistent, but it’s not terribly distracting.

Short Films Included Are:
BURN•E – BURN•E is a dedicated, hard-working robot that finds himself locked out of his ship and quickly learns that completing a simple task can often be a difficult endeavor. Based on characters from ‘WALL•E.’ (Directed by: Angus MacLane) BURN•E is another character that is easy to fall in love with They did a great job of incorporating him into the story.

Dug’s Special Mission – In this funny short based on the character from ‘Up,’ Dug is sent on a foolish mission by Alpha, Beta and Gamma so that they can hunt for the Bird of Paradise Falls by themselves. Soon Dug discovers that where he belongs is not where he’s been looking. (Directed by: Ronnie del Carmen)

George & AJ – Inspired by Carl’s escape, senior citizens around the city unite to make their own “escapes,” much to the chagrin of George and A.J., in this short that features characters from ‘Up.’ (Directed by: Josh Cooley) This one is stylized a bit differently than most shorts, but it pays off. I really enjoyed the nice change-up.

Air Mater – In this hilarious short, Mater decides he wants to learn how to fly and is accidentally recruited by an elite group of formation flyers, the Falcon Hawks. (Directed by: Rob Gibbs)

Time Travel Mater – When a clock lands on Mater’s engine, he travels back in time to 1910 where he meets Stanley, the founder of Radiator Springs. (Directed by: Rob Gibbs)

Your Friend The Rat – ‘Ratatouille’s’ Remy and his brother Emile take us on a world history lesson, through the eyes of a rat. (Directed by: Jim Capobianco) It’s interesting to watch a rat describe their side of the plague.

Partly Cloudy – This humorous short features baby-delivering storks who receive their special packages high in the stratosphere, from clouds who sculpt babies and bring them to life. (Directed by: Peter Sohn) This is a cute little story that will make you want to hug a cloud!

Presto – When Presto, a great turn-of-the-century magician, neglects to feed his rabbit one too many times, the magician finds he isn’t the only one with a few tricks up his sleeve. (Directed by: Doug Sweetland) This might just be my favorite. It’s clever, funny… and who doesn’t like magic?

Day & Night – This short follows Day, a sunny fellow, who encounters Night, a stranger of distinctly dark moods. As their suspicions turn to curiosity, they are delighted to find that this budding friendship can offer a new perspective on the world. (Directed by: Teddy Newton) Again, not the typical animation that we are used to, but a ton of fun!

Hawaiian Vacation – Fans will love this “Toy Story Toon,” as Woody and Buzz lead a group of toys in giving Ken and Barbie the Hawaiian vacation of their dreams – without ever leaving home. (Directed by: Gary Rydstrom) The Toy Story gang really knows how to make life fun!

Small Fry – Fans’ favorite team of toys is back in this clever “Toy Story Toon.” Buzz Lightyear is left behind at a fast food restaurant where he finds himself in a support group for discarded toys. As Woody and the gang devise a way to rescue their friend, Buzz tries to escape the toy psychotherapy meeting. (Directed by: Angus MacLane)

La Luna – The timeless fable of a young boy coming of age in the most peculiar of circumstances, in which he discovers his Papa’s and Grandpa’s unusual line of work. (Directed by: Enrico Casarosa)

The film also includes audio commentary for each of the shorts. They offer a short (pun intended) glimpse into the creation of each tale. They also have included seven student films from John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton and Pete Docter. It’s interesting to see how their styles have developed and changed. It’s also nice to see some hand drawn animation.

PIXAR SHORT FILMS COLLECTION: VOLUME 2 is fun for the whole family! It’s a great addition to any home collection.

OVERALL RATING: 4.25 out of 5 stars

 PIXAR SHORT FILMS COLLECTION: VOLUME 2 is available on Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital now