'Cars 2' is Pixar-lite

As much as it pains me to say it, "Cars 2" isn't up to the caliber of previous Pixar efforts. It's their first feature film in 12 to cut corners in storytelling and character development.

"Cars 2" will still satisfy kids and parents in need of a swift big screen adventure, and Pixar continues to render gorgeous visuals. Just don't expect the emotional depth of previous efforts, including last year's sob-inducing "Toy Story 3."

Credit returning director (and studio head) John Lasseter for taking a fresh approach in "Cars 2." Racecar Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) leaves the simple life of Radiator Springs behind to compete in the World Grand Prix, with races set for Japan, Italy and London. The competition allows Pixar to create spectacular new visual backdrops (the fresh locales probably help boost the international box office as well).

McQueen's racing is more of a subplot in "Cars 2." The film instead focuses on once-sidekick Mater, the sweet-hearted but dimwitted tow truck voiced by Larry the Cable Guy. Mistaken for an American spy, Mater is enlisted by British secret agent Finn McMissile (Michael Caine) to investigate a conspiracy involving eco-friendly gasoline and an international gang of rusted lemons.

As far as spy action movies go, "Cars 2" delivers the goods, more so than many James Bond efforts. There are several clever action sequences, packed with the usual Pixar assortment of visual gags and Easter eggs.

Lasseter tries to inject a few heartfelt moments between races and explosions, most focusing on the strained friendship of Mater and McQueen, but the effort is too simplistic and nothing you wouldn't expect from lesser kiddie fare.

A better progression of the story might have focused on the absence of McQueen's mentor, Doc Hudson (voiced in the original by the late, great Paul Newman). There's a nice moment in the beginning of the film that touches on his disappearance, but it's ultimately a missed opportunity for McQueen's character arc.

The colorful supporting cast that injected humor in the first "Cars" doesn't have much to do in the sequel either, reducing talented performers like Bonnie Hunt and Tony Shalhoub to only a handful of scenes. Only John Turturro as a rival racecar in the Grand Prix shows any personality.

Perhaps it's unfair to measure "Cars 2" against previous Pixar efforts. The sequel intends to be an action-centric spy romp, and it exceeds those modest expectations. It's still better than most of what passes for children's entertainment.

But go in expecting the usual Pixar magic, and you're bound to be disappointed.

Grade: B

Note: The short that precedes the film, "Hawaiian Vacation," stars Woody, Buzz and the rest of the "Toy Story" gang. In five minutes, it delivers more humor and heart than the entirety of "Cars 2."

Ticket Stubs is sponsored by the Hayden Cinema Six. Showtimes at www.HaydenCinema6.com. Tyler Wilson can be reached at twilson@cdapress.com.