The world of ‘Cars’ is about to reach new heights with Disney’s new film, ‘Planes‘. The film follows a crop dusting plane, named Dusty, who’s goal in life is to “enter the most epic around-the-world air race… despite his fear of heights.” Originally conceived as a direct to video spin-off of the ‘Cars’ franchise, Disney has decided to give the film a proper theatrical release. I’ll admit, I was skeptical about the idea of a ‘Cars’ spin-off in the first place, and the fact that it was going direct to video originally had me worried. But, direct to video doesn’t always mean a film will be bad, looking at the recent ‘Tinkerbell’ series of films that are actually quite good, as well as ‘Toy Story 2′, which started life as a direct to video sequel, before getting a theatrical release. 

The trailer looks to do it’s job well, and definitely get the feeling that kids are going to enjoy themselves while watching it. The film really doesn’t look half bad, but I find it interesting that Jon Cryer, who was originally announced to be the voice of Dusty, backed away from the film last we had heard. But while watching the trailer, that clearly sounds like Cryer’s voice, so could Cryer be doing the voice work after all? I’m not sure, but I’m hoping we’ll see a final voice cast list soon, because I’m definitely curious to see who is in the film. There’s also a hint of Brad Garrett in the trailer, which isn’t surprising, he’s become a staple for family films over the past few decades, and has popped up in numerous Disney films over that time.

All in all, the trailer does it’s job well, and as I said before, I’m sure kids are going to love it. The ‘Cars’ universe is very popular with kids, so any chance to visit it and get to know new characters is something that they’ll look forward to. ‘Planes’ is set to open on August 9, 2013.

Are you looking forward to ‘Planes’? Or are the ‘Cars’ films enough for you and your family? Let me know in the comments below, only here at Chip and Company.

Official Plot Synopsis for ‘Planes’:

PLANES takes off with an international cast of the fastest air racers around, in a comedy packed with action and adventure starring Dusty, a small town dreamer who longs to enter the most epic around-the-world air race … despite his fear of heights. With the help and support of a fleet of new and hilarious characters, Dusty wings his way into the biggest challenge of his life.

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Patrick (263 Posts)

Patrick Campbell is a self a huge geek and cinephile. Currently residing in Orange County, CA, he finds his time watching movies, reading comics, and trying to keep up with the latest film and theme park news. He actively uses twitter. Follow him at @pj_campbell.