Disney TV Animation is back with another adaptation of a Pixar franchise and the first since Buzz Lightyear of Star Command back in 2000. In the twenty years since Monsters Inc. was released, the franchise has maintained some relevancy with memes and a prequel. Helping to connect the dots further for the franchise is this series, with a premise that justifies the existence of the prequel. And just like the prequel, the show contains interesting ideas but cliche storytelling and characters.
Like any TV adaptation, there’s a good amount of old and new characters. The new characters mostly have one personality trait, though this flaw has minimal impact on their engagement value. Tylor Tuskmon is the typically misplaced newbie who seeks to accomplish his goal. The other members of MIFT (Monsters Inc. Facilities Team) are compelling but one-dimensional, ranging from the eccentrically enthusiastic Val to Duncan, the discount Randall Boggs. However, with the overall simplicity of the series, the characters fit in relatively well, and they end up being more compelling than expected. In terms of returning characters, all of them serve their purpose in their secondary roles. It’s interesting to see Mike and Sulley take up leadership roles as they continue to work well off each other. The return of Billy Crystal and John Goodman helps to create a sense of continuity with the films. Having voice actors such as Henry Winkler and Mindy Kailing adds to the credibility of the series, with the voice cast of the new characters adding personality to the characters.
While recent Disney TV Animation efforts utilized complex and overarching storylines, this series falls back on simple storylines that would have been acceptable 20 years ago. One-dimensional characters can be salvaged by compelling acting, but the simplicity of the storylines is difficult to stomach. Like Monsters University, the storylines contain relevant themes but end up having predictable outcomes. This wouldn’t be much of an issue if the writing offered more creativity. In comparison to recent Disney TVA efforts, the storylines are taking steps backward in progression. Even the more recent movie-based Disney TVA shows such as Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure and Big Hero 6: The Series managed to attempt complex storylines. While there was some level of predictability in those shows, the journey to get there was unique and engaging. With storylines ranging from saving the company from closure to personal conflicts between coworkers, the writing offers nothing new. One standout episode is “Adorable Returns,” as it enhances the world-building with unique elements. The one major highlight found in most episodes is the closing “Mike’s Comedy Class” segment, as it breaks up the formulaic aspects of the show. The overall comedy is good but doesn’t go above the quality of humor from the films.
With the advancements of CGI since the release of Monsters Inc., Disney TVA managed to emulate the visual style of the original film. While the CGI may not be as advanced as modern Pixar standards, the limitations work to the advantage of the show. The character designs of the new characters continue the creative tradition established in the previous entries. In comparison to other CG Disney TVA shows, there’s more effort in the details. In addition, the color palette relies on duller colors to emphasize the work environment. In terms of music, the score is entertaining. Dominic Lewis does a great job of emulating Randy Newman’s musical cues from the film. The acapella rendition of “If I Didn’t Have You” is compelling, along with the remixes during the end credits.
Overall, Monsters at Work starts off with some entertaining moments and the return of familiar faces, even if the storylines and new characters feel cliche. The older characters help establish some familiarity while the new characters feel run-of-the-mill. While a nice deviation, the storylines for individual episodes are stock to the point of being predictable. Despite the cliche nature, the show is more enjoyable than expected and further enhanced with the animation. With the news of a second season, there’s hope that the show can develop further into its own identity.
SCORE: 7/10
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