Have been a huge lifelong fan of animation, of all styles and decades, and my love for it hasn't wavered. In fact my love has actually gotten stronger and appreciate it even more, thanks to, as said many times, having gained a wider knowledge of it as my tastes broadened.
Will admit to feeling a bit nervous though before watching 'Teen Titans Go! To the Movies'. Despite above average to great reviews as we speak and an appetising concept, it was mentioned more than once that it was true to the show 'Teen Titans Go'. Being someone who hates that show quite strongly (not quite one of the worst animated shows ever, but it is another indicator of how it is so sad that Cartoon Network over the years has declined so drastically), that filled me with dread. Will say, am a fan of the 2000s 'Teen Titans' show, which 'Teen Titans Go!' is a slap on the face to. Seeing it as part of my quest to see as many 2018 films as possible, my reaction was actually that of pleasant surprise.
There are better examples of animation out there, but 'Teen Titans Go! To the Movies' is a huge improvement over 'Teen Titans Go!' with many of that show's flaws being corrected.
By all means, a few of the faults remain. Not all the jokes land, much of the writing has actually improved significantly but some of the jokes are juvenile and misplaced, there is a little toilet humour that the film could easily have done without because it really doesn't fit and makes one cringe.
Problems with pacing remain at times too, there are parts that are too hyper-active and rushed and a few parts drag.
Maybe a few too many characters as well, some more interesting than others and more screen time for some wouldn't have gone amiss.
However, the animation is a big improvement. It is more vibrant, more detailed, much smoother with more expression and nuance, imagination is also here too. The music, which actually was the only good thing about the show, is insanely catchy and atmospheric except it's placed even better and it's more inspired.
Juvenile humour aside, the vast difference for the better in the writing is evident. The dialogue is smart and with a lot of sharpness, tongue-in-cheek nature and wacky wit, and there are some thick and fast gags and fantastic references that are so much fun to recognise and enjoy, are affectionate and don't feel thrown in. It is fair to say to one should be familiar with what is being referenced and parodied so that full understanding makes it even more enjoyable, this is why adults will find there is actually something for them and the younger demographic may find themselves inspired to get acquainted.
Story is thin admittedly and can be rushed, but there are some nice surprises, a surprising intelligence, a bright and breezy nature and much more of a balance of comedy and drama, the former not going overboard and the latter not neglected (when apparent it doesn't get too sombre). On top of that there is an appealing charm and light-heartedness. All of this cannot be said for the show.
Characters are far more interesting and likeable, Robin has depth to him and while the other Teen Titans could have had more screen time a good job is done with Raven and Beast Boy too. The voice acting is great, Scott Menville and Tara Strong actually being well used this time and Will Arnett and Kristen Bell being worthy additions. Was surprised in a good way by Nicholas Cage, that casting should not have worked but somehow it did, working as slyly digging at Hollywood politics responsible for the failure of 'Superman Lives'.
Overall, didn't blow my mind but a more than worthwhile diversion that should help blow any troubles away. 7/10 Bethany Cox
