The lead character in the Pixar film “WALL-E” is both an acronym (Waste Allocation Load Lifter—Earth class) and a lonely robot with a personality. While Pixar has mastered the art of animation, it is the implicit message this film conveys which makes it much more than a mere cartoon.Some conservatives have written the film off as anti-capitalist propaganda. If the intent of capitalism is to cater to the basest instincts of the human heart, requiring us to indulge our every whim and desire, leading to a dependence on government, then I guess I, too, am an anti-capitalist. However, capitalism can only arrive at that end when all of the restraints of personal responsibility are removed. In this sense, WALL-E is a brilliant exposure of liberalism’s flaws...
After a weekend viewing of “WALL-E,” Claire and I (along with Quint and Carol Coppi) agree with Paul Edwards' positive review of the film. It is a very touching story, well told, inventive and with profound social and spiritual significance. On the surface, it may seem to be a "green" movie but its environmental messages are rationally, responsibly conveyed with a few significant departures from the more radical green propaganda normally touted nowadays.
Your kids may like the film. It will be, on their level, cute and perfect for the inevitable spin off toys and video games.
But thinking adults will like it even more.
Other spiritually-oriented commentaries about “WALL-E” can be found here and here. And, don't forget to read the rest of Paul Edwards' column as well.
