Finding Dory: ‘Forgetful’ is Just the Half of It

What’s a Geek got the chance to attend the special gala screening of Disney-Pixar’s Finding Dory at SM Megamall. Fans and moviegoers donning their 3D glasses were graced by the presence of Paul Abadilla, the Pandacan, Manila-born Filipino set artist who did much of the backgrounds for the film and whose art was featured in other Pixar hits such as Inside Out (also co-directed by fellow Filipino Ronnie Del Carmen).

Finding Dory is the much awaited sequel for 2003’s Finding Nemo, set one year after the events of the first film. Ellen DeGeneres is back as the forgetful Pacific regal blue tang Dory who, after years of suffering from short-term memory loss, finally recovers some of her childhood memories, and something about “the jewel of Morro Bay, California.”

Determined to find her way back to her parents, Dory embarks on a cross-country journey that will test her wits, bravery and ultimately her trust to herself. But not alone! Dory will be joined by panicky Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks, who was also Marlin in the previous film) and Nemo (namesake of the first film, who will be voiced this time by Hayden Rolence), and new friends! Dory will meet the ill-tempered octopus Hank (Ed O’Neill), short-sighted whale shark Destiny (Kaitlin Olson) and her neighbor beluga whale Bailey (Ty Burrel), who, along with some sea lions, sea otters (oh god the cuteness), and other ‘sea’-prefixed creatures, will help her in her quest for self-discovery.

Aided by the insight of Sigourney Weaver (seriously), Finding Dory was a spectacular roller coaster of an emotional journey around memory lane that will skyrocket you past your tears. The film is an adventure where fishes and sea-dwellers prove life is hard and never easy, but a lot of humor, love and tender Dory-ing can overcome any challenge, no matter what the odds.

Finding Dory will find its way in Filipino cinemas this June 16, with an international release on June 17.