In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations. The new needs friends. Last night, I experienced something new: an extraordinary meal from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the meal and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about fine cooking is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Chef Gusteau's famous motto, "Anyone can cook." But I realize, only now do I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist; but a great artist can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now cooking at Gusteau's, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest chef in France. I will be returning to Gusteau's soon, hungry for more.
Anton Ego, Ratatouille (2007)
I have watched many Pixar movies many many MANY times over the years, and I think I can finally say with conviction that Ratatouille holds the top spot for me. There are so many hilarious, well animated and edited scenes (the special order sequence) as well as the ultimate Pixar scene that never fails to make me cry out of overwhelming emotion (Ego taking a bite of the ratatouille). I’ve always loved Ego’s quote “Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere”, and seeing his full review written out like this makes me appreciate the writing in this movie even more.
