Wall-E

Ben Burtt, Jeff Garlin, Fred Willard, Elissa Knight, John Ratzenberger (Actors). (2008) Walt Disney Video. Rated G. B0013FSL3E

PLOT SUMMARY

Wall-E, the last remaining robot trash compacter, dutifully continues to do his job long after the humans who left the rubbish behind vacated for a cushy life in space. He befriends the robot EVE whose prime directive is to detect what life is left on earth. When WAll-E finds a plant sprouting beneath the trash, she takes it, and he follows her into space where they, along with robot cohorts, lead the now overfed, understimulated human race back to earth where they will start anew.

CRITICAL EVALUATION

Strong themes permeate this film: human wastefulness leading to ecological disaster, our reliance on the media, potential for laziness. It sends valuable messages about what we are and what we could become. While the film is thoroughly entertaining simply because of the animation and the endearing qualities of robots who apparently have human feelings/behaviors, it also provides us with food for thought. With so many of us dependent upon "packaged comforts" and "disposable pleasures" we forget that there is so much that we can enjoy in our lives that don't involve opening a wrapper. Our relationships with other people is a prime example of this, and to build and nurture one, means actual interaction, rather than sitting in front of a tv screen all day, as they did in the movie.

GENRE

Sci-Fi/Animation

CURRICULUM TIES

Science

Have students discuss what we need to do to prevent us from destroying the planet. Have them discuss the difference between "wants" and "needs," and categorize their own wants and needs. Have them research and share their discoveries of the different conservation organizations and their contributions to the environment. They can also research how our time spent watching tv influences our decisions and our lives.

READING LEVEL/INTEREST AGE

5 and up

CHALLENGE ISSUES

none

WHY INCLUDE THIS MOVIE?

Other than pure entertainment value, this movie includes themes that are important for people to consider.