In a quaint seaside town on the Italian Riviera, a sea monster named Luca (Jacob Tremblay) is about to have the summer of his life. When he meets Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer), a human boy, he is suddenly immersed into a world above the surface. Gelato, pasta and dreams of owning their own vespa, Luca and Alberto team up with local girl Giulia (Emma Berman) to compete in the annual race, but they must be careful not to spill their secret along the way.

Pixar’s latest film Luca is a lot more modest and gentle than some of its predecessors. They usually go above and beyond to up the anti every time, so having a simple story about friendship was different and refreshing to see. Luca and Alberto’s relationship quickly comes at the forefront of the movie and it is touching to watch it blossom. That is something that Pixar always manages to do. They really tug on your heartstrings and this was no exception.

With Jacob Tremblay as Luca and Jack Dylan Grazer as Alberto, the two did a wonderful job as the leads. They really managed to bring to life the friendship between both boys and I have to say that I could watch their interactions for ages and not get bored. Emma Berman is a great addition as Giulia. Maya Rudolph as Luca’s mom Daniela and Jim Gaffigan as Luca’s dad Lorenzo definitely added some humor as well. There was even a cameo from Sacha Baron Cohen!

Unfortunately there were some parts of the film that I did not enjoy. The ‘villain’ of the story, Ercole Visconti played by Saverio Raimondo was quite annoying. I also wasn’t really sure what purpose he served and couldn’t decide if he added anything to the plot. I also have to mention the fact that the overall storyline was not exactly original. I got serious Little Mermaid vibes the whole way through and wanted to break out singing Part Of Your World.

At the end of the day, Luca is one of the summer’s not to be missed films. It is still very enjoyable and great escapism, but it doesn’t stand out from the crowd either.

Rating: ♥♥♥.5