The Incredibles

The Incredibles is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus and fuboTV, and it uses the format for more than just a visual hook. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. Its 8/10 TMDB score, built from 19,033 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Watch it in order — the character development is cumulative. There is no real reason to keep putting it off — it is right there on Disney Plus.

The Incredibles is not trying to be everything to everyone, and that focus is exactly what makes it work. The Incredibles has the visual identity that makes it immediately recognisable, and the writing to back it up. Bob Parr has given up his superhero days to log in time as an insurance adjuster and raise his three children with his formerly heroic wife in suburbia. But when he receives a mysterious assignment, it's time to get back into costume. Craig T. Nelson and Holly Hunter bring more to it than the format typically demands. It hit screens in 2004. The Incredibles uses the freedom of animation to tell stories live-action could not attempt. It rarely drops the ball, and when it does, it recovers fast.

The Incredibles belongs on any best-of list regardless of format. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. Craig T. Nelson's voice work is a big part of what makes it distinctive. If you have been sleeping on it because of the format, the format is not the thing here.