Both films have relevant lessons for my life, and I was not put off by the performances or the script of Nemo — quite the opposite. But I agree that The Incredibles is by far the more sublime. Middle age is a much broader topic, for one thing, than overprotectiveness. But I suspect that the sheer satisfaction of decoding the allegory lends it extra meaning, or at least meaningfulness.

I cannot, however, agree with you on Finding Nemo. True, I cannot relate on the same level as you as the closest I am to parenthood is being the warden of a geriatric feline. I don’t think that particularly matters though. Even if I were a parent I still would not like this movie. Did I miss the message of over-protectiveness? How on Earth could I when it was delivered in such a heavy-handed manner? This movie played to the cheap seats. Shiny for the sake of shininess, entirely obvious, unclever writing, distracting voice talent and, as a nail in the coffin, a bumbling comic sidekick (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres). I’m very glad that you’re able to find comfort and inspiration in it and that you do, I admit, raises it a notch in my estimation. But that estimation is now and always will be a low one despite that.

FWIW, I’m notoriously brutal to movies, rarely find one I actually like (yet I keep watching) and I’ve always understood and appreciated It’s a Wonderful Life.

Also, this comment was edited using vi so I’m a lost cause anyway.