Almost all of us wish we were in a different place than we are now. This can mean that we want to be in a different physical place, a different time in our lives or even in an entirely different  life. “Ralph Breaks the Internet,” much like its predecessor, speaks to that idea. Ralph and Vanellope have continued to be friends for the past six years since the first film, and while Ralph is content with his life and identity, Vanellope has become bored with her routine, which she believes lacks any excitement or surprises.  When the arcade they live in acquires WiFi, Ralph and Vanellope venture into the internet to find both excitement and adventure while also questioning the importance of their friendship in this new world of infinite possibilities.

I enjoyed the first “Wreck-it-Ralph” movie. However, when I saw the trailer for this sequel, I had fairly low expectations. I had a feeling that it was going to be like “The Emoji Movie,” which was a truly horrible film. However, “Ralph Breaks the Internet” was not only a surprisingly fun movie, but as of right now, one of my favorite movies of the year, second only to “Infinity War.” “Ralph Breaks the Internet” takes the annoying aspects of the internet, like social media and pop ups, and pokes fun at them, while also cleverly incorporating them into the plot. In fact, I would say that this movie is a self aware, tongue-in-cheek parody of modern animated movies. Though it’s not technically satire or a parody movie, “Ralph Breaks the Internet” is more effective than most other satirical films released since 2000. The elements that satirize both internet culture and Disney films are balanced out by themes of fate, self-identity and friendship. This all comes together to create a movie that is both enjoyable to children and adults.

The part of the film that interested me the most was the internet world that the  characters explore. It reminded me of Coruscant from “Star Wars,” just with more internet references and product placement (but these work to the movie’s advantage). That being said, there is a great deal of fun in noticing and finding all of the references and easter eggs scattered throughout the film.

Going along with the tongue-in-cheek attitude throughout the film, the scene where Vanellope meets all of the Disney princesses is quite clever. All of the princesses get a proper amount of screentime for what is essentially a glorified cameo while poking fun at the cliche, yet effective, formula that is a staple in all princess movies. In fact, this scene alone demonstrates the attitude and atmosphere of the film. It works off of prior Disney films, while not only poking fun at it, but using it to craft a brilliant movie.

“Ralph Breaks the Internet” is somewhat reminiscent of “Ready Player One”. Both movies immerse the audience into a virtual world of infinite possibilities and  use references from other movies to their advantage.

“Ralph Breaks the Internet” works on nearly every level! It succeeds as both a children’s film, while also possessing intelligent humor that will leave adults entertained. In a world where Disney is adapting their old animated films into live action ones due to a lack of ideas, “Ralph Breaks the Internet” is a creative and original breath of fresh air that also has a powerful message about friendship and choosing your own path. I would consider it  not only to be the best-animated movie of the year, but one of the best movies of the year. 5/5 stars

Also, be sure to stay for the post-credits scene. It’s one of the best that I’ve seen in any movie ever!