Disney does it again! This is truly a family film in every sense of the word “family”. The importance of parents and, in this case, particularly moms, is emphasized when the character of Milo wishes out loud his mother wasn’t around, only to regret it a short time later when she is captured and taken to Mars.
The animation is wonderful. It ranges from soft, warm colors at Milo’s home to the starkness and darkness of space in contrast to the strong metallic ships and alien devices of this foreign world of Mars. The characters are delightful including Gribble, namely George Ribble, a large man who acts more like a big teenager than he does an adult. He has an interesting background and becomes fast friends with Milo. The aliens and Martians are also delightful, and when certain aliens mimic Milo and what he explains his mother did for him, such as feeding him and running the vacuum cleaner, the laughter really kicks in. The baby hatchlings are also an enjoyable group of characters to watch in the picture.
There are a few intense scenes with Martians firing lasers at Milo and his friends, and a few of the aliens aren’t pretty, but there is nothing so intense as to be worrisome for parents. I saw the movie with a large range of ages and no youngster seemed frightened. There were plenty of laughs. And the voice talent includes Seth Green and Joan Cusack, who is terrific as Milo’s mother.
Disney does it again with a great story, animation and a more-than-happy ending. And what a nice example that Mars is interested in Earth’s moms because they do a good job in training obedient children. In another nice scene, Mom is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for her son. We are pleased to recommend this movie for all ages and to award our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal to “Mars Needs Moms”. We want to send you to Mars. You’ll have a good time.
