Summary
Highlights
The host, the Lawn Gnome, introduces the 10th episode of 'VS.' and expresses excitement for the superhero-themed debate. He introduces the two panelists: Zach, defending The Incredibles, and Ellie Murray, defending Big Hero 6. Both share their first Disney film experiences and initial impressions of the movies they are defending.
The first debate topic is the overall atmosphere of the films: The Incredibles' retro Golden Age/Silver Age comic book feel versus Big Hero 6's modern, futuristic San Fransokyo. Zach argues for the nostalgic appeal of The Incredibles' retro setting, emphasizing a simpler time without modern distractions. Ellie Murray counters with the diverse and technologically advanced utopia of San Fransokyo, highlighting its blend of Japanese and San Francisco cultures and its potential for problem-solving. The debate quickly becomes heated as they discuss the practicality and potential downsides of each setting.
The discussion shifts to the core storytelling of each film. Ellie Murray details how Big Hero 6 is driven by Hiro's loss of his brother, Tadashi, and how he finds a new family and purpose through this loss. Zach argues that The Incredibles focuses on Mr. Incredible's gain of a family and his journey to balance his superhero life with his family responsibilities, portraying a relatable midlife crisis. They both concede that many Disney films touch on both loss and gain, but emphasize the distinct approach of each movie.
The final part of Round 1 explores Mr. Incredible's family and legacy versus Hiro's coming-of-age story. Zach highlights the adult themes in The Incredibles, such as dealing with financial struggles and familial relationships, and how each family member's powers reflect their real-life roles and anxieties. Ellie Murray explains Hiro's journey from a troubled 14-year-old to a hero, learning about revenge and finding a new family among the Big Hero 6 team. The host declares Zach and The Incredibles the winner of Round 1 due to a specific point raised by Zach about the superpowers symbolizing family members' real-life traits.
Round 2 commences with a comparison of the protagonists. Ellie Murray praises Hiro as a 14-year-old genius who matures quickly, forming strong relationships with his aunt and the Big Hero 6 team. Zach argues that Mr. Incredible's character arc is more compelling, as he deals with a relatable midlife crisis, a loss of identity, and the challenge of returning to his superhero prime after years of retirement. They debate whether Hiro's journey or Mr. Incredible's struggle is more impactful.
The panelists delve into the antagonists. Zach immediately dismisses Big Hero 6's villain as cliché and boring, asserting Syndrome from The Incredibles is superior due to his well-developed backstory of rejection and his twisted philosophy of making everyone a "super." Ellie Murray defends Callaghan from Big Hero 6, explaining his tragic motivation stemming from the presumed death of his daughter and his willingness to go to extreme lengths for revenge, arguing his complexity and moral ambiguity. The discussion becomes passionate, with both making strong points about their chosen villain's motivations and impact.
The final part of Round 2 is about the best supporting cast member. Ellie Murray champions Baymax, highlighting his role as a medical bot, his impressive armor, and his ability to be reprogrammed for various tasks, making him essential to the team. Zach counters with Edna Mode, the eccentric fashion designer from The Incredibles, praising her sharp wit, iconic lines, and her vital role in designing the supersuits, despite her aversion to direct combat. Ellie Murray wins this segment, arguing that Baymax's active contribution to the team's fights and medical needs makes him more integral than Edna Mode's design role.
Round 3 focuses on how the stories continued: The Incredibles 2 as a sequel film versus Big Hero 6 as a television series. Zach praises The Incredibles 2 for its immediate continuation of the story, its focus on Elastigirl, and its exploration of adult themes like Mr. Incredible as a stay-at-home dad. He argues that movies take more risks than cartoons and deliver a more impactful, contained story. Ellie Murray asserts that Big Hero 6's TV series format allows for extensive world-building in San Fransokyo, introduces diverse new characters and villains, and gives more time to develop the main cast, arguing that a movie would be too rushed.
The debate continues on the new supporting characters and the depth of their respective continuations. Ellie Murray mentions new villains in Big Hero 6, such as Globby, and highlights the expanded understanding of characters like Krei. She also emphasizes an overarching, unknown villain in the series that adds intrigue. Zach focuses on new characters in The Incredibles 2, particularly Void (voiced by Sophia Bush), and the film's ability to quickly establish compelling new dynamics and plot points. He argues that the series risks long, drawn-out plots and potential disappointment, contrasting it with the tight, impactful storytelling of the film.
The final discussion point revolves around the benefits of a contained 2-hour film versus multiple seasons of a TV series. Zach argues that a film provides a complete narrative with greater depth, unlike a TV show which can become diluted with filler episodes or lose its initial quality. Ellie Murray counters that an ongoing series offers multiple possibilities, complex character development, and the chance to explore the world more thoroughly. Both express hope for the long-term success of their chosen format but acknowledge the risks involved for each. The host then concludes the debate, declaring Zach and The Incredibles the winner of the overall battle.