I love video games. I have always loved video games. Though there are some pretty awesome and creative games available right now, I miss having to blow the dust off the Sonic the Hedgehog game cartridge so my Sega Genesis could read it. It seemed like video games of yesterday were continuing to fade into the shadow of newer games, and I found myself missing the pixelation and glitches that I grew to love — and then Ralph came along. 

• The video game references rock. From the beginning of the film — actually before it begins — Wreck-It Ralph is filled with references, terminology, characters, and visual imagery reminiscent of video games — both past and present. Though the references to lovable games can be incredibly enjoyable, it is possible that the humor could be lost on some viewers. Because most of the entertainment in watching the movie comes from the unexpected presence of such references, it may be a bit difficult for everyone to understand the humor. In fact, I felt that the movie may play a bit too much to the adult humor — not as in inappropriate humor, but just a kind of humor that creates a palpable generational gap. There were even a couple of moments in the movie that Chris and I did not get — and we consider ourselves to be younger supporters of the video game era. 
• The story line is sweet, but often overwhelming. Not surprisingly, the genius writers at Disney have once again made a movie that creatively tugs at heart strings and tickles funny bones at the same time. The delightfully exciting adventure that Ralph embarks on takes him into new, immersive, digital worlds — and he takes the audience with him. It is incredibly easy to fall in love with the movie’s leading characters — and the friendship that bonds them together in the end. Unfortunately, though, I found myself feeling a bit overwhelmed by how much content and side story lines make up the movie. It is possible that younger children will have a difficult time understanding every aspect of the film. Though enjoyable, there is a lot to take in.
• Vanellope is adorable. I dare you to try not to adore Wreck-It Ralph‘s leading lady. Little Vanellope, a character in the go-kart racing game “Sugar Rush,” has a wonderful character story and development. You’ll love her. Don’t even try not to.
• Most people will really enjoy this movie. Because of the old school game references, creative story line and character development, and overall visual delight of Wreck-It Ralph, the film is sure to please a broad age range of viewers. Though some children may get a bit lost in the intricacy of humor and story line, there is enough child friendly entertainment to please this generation’s game players and movie watchers. 

To become fully immersed in the world of Wreck-It Ralph, be sure to pick up the winter issue of Disney twenty-three, the flagship magazine of D23: The OfficialDisney Fan Club. This issue, out November 13, brings fans further into the world of Ralph to explore special behind-the-scenes features. Along with the new issue, D23 Gold Members will receive a special member-only gift: a vibrant set of pixelated Wreck-It Ralph window clings featuring Ralph, Fix-It Felix, Jr. and the Nicelanders.