When Pixar releases a new film, audiences expect a combination of stunning animation, compelling storytelling, and memorable characters. However, when The Good Dinosaur hit theaters in 2015, it didn’t receive the universal acclaim typical of Pixar’s other works. While it has its fans, the film also garnered criticism from viewers who felt it fell short of expectations. So, what do people dislike about The Good Dinosaur? Let’s break it down.
1. A Predictable Storyline
One of the most common critiques of The Good Dinosaur is its lack of originality in storytelling. The movie follows Arlo, a young, timid dinosaur, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns to overcome his fears. While this is a tried-and-true formula for animated films, many viewers felt it was too predictable and lacked the emotional complexity and clever twists Pixar is known for.
Compared to films like Inside Out or Up, which offered innovative narratives, The Good Dinosaur was seen as playing it safe. Critics argue that it relied too heavily on familiar tropes, making it less engaging for both children and adults.
2. Tone and Pacing Issues
Another point of contention is the film’s uneven tone and pacing. The Good Dinosaur oscillates between lighthearted humor and surprisingly dark, intense moments, creating a jarring experience for some viewers. Scenes involving danger, loss, and fear of survival were deemed too intense for younger audiences, while the slower, quieter moments left others feeling disengaged.
The film’s pacing also received criticism for being sluggish at times, especially during Arlo’s journey through vast, empty landscapes. While some appreciated the contemplative nature of these scenes, others found them dull and lacking in narrative momentum.
3. Underdeveloped Characters
Pixar is celebrated for creating memorable, multi-dimensional characters, but many felt the characters in The Good Dinosaur didn’t live up to this standard. Arlo, while relatable, was criticized for being a somewhat bland protagonist. His personality and arc, while heartfelt, lacked the depth and complexity of characters like Woody from Toy Story or Marlin from Finding Nemo.
Similarly, the supporting characters, such as Spot (Arlo’s human companion), received mixed reactions. While Spot’s loyalty and wild nature were endearing, some viewers felt his character wasn’t fleshed out enough to create a lasting emotional impact.
4. Inconsistent World-Building
The premise of The Good Dinosaur imagines a world where dinosaurs never went extinct and instead evolved into intelligent, anthropomorphic creatures. However, many felt the world-building was inconsistent and underexplored.
For instance, some dinosaurs in the film act as farmers and ranchers, complete with human-like behaviors, while others are portrayed as more animalistic. This blending of realism and fantasy left some viewers confused about the film’s logic and rules. Critics argued that the film didn’t fully capitalize on its unique premise, leaving audiences wanting more depth and creativity in the world it presented.
5. Overshadowed by Other Pixar Films
The Good Dinosaur was released just months after Inside Out, a critically acclaimed Pixar masterpiece. Comparisons between the two were inevitable, and The Good Dinosaur often fell short. While Inside Out captivated audiences with its inventive concept and emotional resonance, The Good Dinosaur felt less ambitious in comparison.
This timing may have contributed to the perception that The Good Dinosaur was a “weaker” Pixar film, even if judged on its own merits it might have been more appreciated.
6. High Expectations for Pixar
Finally, much of the criticism surrounding The Good Dinosaur stems from the incredibly high bar Pixar has set for itself. As the studio behind films like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles, Pixar has cultivated an expectation of groundbreaking storytelling and emotional depth. When The Good Dinosaur delivered a more conventional story, many viewers couldn’t help but feel disappointed.
What Did People Like About The Good Dinosaur?
Despite its flaws, the film isn’t without its merits. The breathtaking animation, particularly in the depiction of nature, received widespread praise. The emotional bond between Arlo and Spot also resonated with some viewers, offering heartfelt moments that touched audiences.
The Good Dinosaur isn’t a bad film, but it’s often considered one of Pixar’s weaker efforts due to its predictable story, uneven tone, and underdeveloped characters. While it has its fans and moments of brilliance, it didn’t quite live up to the high standards set by Pixar’s other works.
Have you watched The Good Dinosaur? What did you think about it? Share your thoughts in the comments below!