Since they released the first “Toy Story,” Pixar has established themselves as the head of the computer animated class. Their films are visually arresting, telling stories that appeal to both children and adults, and they use top-notch voice talent to do it. With each passing film, the images on the screen become even more fantastic and “Cars” is proof once again of Pixar lapping the field.

The story is a familiar one. A hotshot who lives life in the fast lane learns a number of life lessons when he is forced to slow down. The hotshot is Lightning McQueen, the Rookie of the Year in the Piston Cup Series. He hot-dogs it in the final race, blowing a big lead and is lucky to force a tie-breaker scheduled for one week later in California. On the way, he gets lost and sidetracked in Radiator Springs, a town on Route 66 that has been bypassed by an interstate. While repairing a road he damaged in town, Lightning learns to care about others, while also learning that winning isn’t the most important thing.

The casting in “Cars” was terrific. Owen Wilson gave voice to Lightning with his trademark charm and wit, while Paul Newman gave gravitas to Doc Hudson, a former race car champion now the head of the town. Larry the Cable Guy stole the show however as Mater the tow truck and Lightning’s de facto best friend. Mater gets many of the funny lines and scenarios and may be the best sidekick in a Pixar film since Mike in “Monsters Inc.” George Carlin and Tony Shalhoub also give life to two humorous residents of Radiator Springs, while John Ratzenberger continues his streak of appearing in Pixar productions (Tip: Stay through the credits for a special treat.)

There are lots of nice surprises in the film and Pixar gets every small detail right from having the “Car Talk” guys cameo as the owners of Rust-eze to having flies look like little Volkswagen bugs. The scenery is amazing, as beautiful as the American southwest truly is, and there are scenes that are absolutely breath-taking. I also found myself very moved by the tale of Radiator Springs demise due to the addition of the interstate and that may be one thing that pushes “Cars” towards adults rather than children. Children may not understand the message that America has lost parts of its heritage and identity in order to save 10 minutes, but I think it is good that they are exposed to that message, along with themes of loyalty, honesty and respect for one’s elders.

Judged against other Pixar films, “Cars” may not be the best of the bunch, but it is a worthy addition to their body of work. Judging it on its own merits, it is a thoroughly entertaining film, appropriate for the whole family and full of laughter, action and drama.

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