Hey friend! Did you hear the news? Lightning McQueen and Mater are back in the aptly titled new series Cars on the Road. I don‘t know about you, but I‘ve been a fan of the Cars franchise since the first film back in 2006. So when I learned the dynamic duo was returning for more hijinks across America, I couldn‘t wait to take it for a test drive. Read on as I breakdown everything you need to know about Cars‘ jump from the big screen to the small one!
Kicking off a Cross-Country Adventure
First, let‘s quickly recap where we left off in this beloved world. Cars 3 wrapped up race car Lightning McQueen‘s character arc as he overcame new high-tech competition to prove he‘s still the best. Meanwhile, his rusty but trusty tow truck pal Mater aided him while learning to accept himself.
Cars on the Road picks up after these events, as Mater embarks on an epic road trip to his sister‘s wedding. Naturally, his BFF McQueen rides shotgun on this cross-country trek. The series includes nine approximately 10-15 minute shorts that tell a connected story while also retaining episodic freedom. Each installment sends the duo on various escapades exploring all sorts of wacky roadside attractions. From a dinosaur museum to a haunted hotel, the Open Road presents endless possibilities!
Feeling That Sweet Wave of Nostalgia
One of my personal favorite aspects of this new show is how it channels the spirit of 2006‘s seminal first Cars film. The anthology-style format reminds me of those classic Pixar Cars Toons shorts. Many key creative members also returned, including Cars 3 director Brian Fee. Of course Owen Wilson and Larry the Cable Guy effortlessly slip back into voicing Lightning and Mater. Their comic banter and brotherly bond remains the heart of the franchise.
In another nostalgic move, Disney debuted a trailer online on the newly minted September 5th "Lightning McQueen Day." And they timed the full series premiere for September 8th‘s Disney+ Day. For longtime fans like us, it was the perfect way to reconnect with these characters from our childhoods. Based on viewership and engagement so far, I‘m clearly not alone in welcoming Lightning and Mater back to the open road!
Gearing Up for Adventure and Laughs
I don‘t want to spoil all the surprises in store, but let me tempt you with some episode highlights. One early standout sends Lightning and Mater to a mysterious hotel straight out of The Shining! Later, they join a circus troupe with humorous results. We also see more beloved characters like Cruz Ramirez appear for cameos. Each short manages to tell a witty, complete story while still linking to the others on this journey.
So whether our heroes get swept up in a pack of crazed cars, a Bigfoot hunt, or a movie production, one thing stays consistent – the laughs. The writing captures that zany, anything-goes cartoon logic I loved in early Cars. While retaining poignancy as Mater questions his identity amidst "real" trucks. Or Lightning stresses about Best Man duties. The Disney magic is still clearly cruising along here!
Why You Should Take This Ride
Alright, let‘s slide under the hood and assess whether this new Cars model is worth taking out for a spin:
For Fans
- Total runtime = Just over 2 hours
- Easy to digest format
- Original cast and creators
- Captures the magic and heart
For Everyone
- Episodic freedom makes its accessible
- Visually vibrant, fluid animation
- Positive themes, wholesome content
I‘ll admit that Cars films tend to score low with critics. But undeniable box office success and merchandising bonanzas prove these characters resonate widely. And this series stays true to the franchise‘s emotional core – the endearing bond between Lightning and Mater. The short run times also make it a breezy watch compared to the occasional drag of later sequels.
Frankly, I think anyone who enjoyed at least one Cars movie will get a kick out of Cars on the Road. It playfully builds on the vast potential of its universe, leaving room for more stories down the line. But for now, subscribing to Disney+ for just $7.99 per month gives you unlimited access. So gas up the family and take this show for a test drive – it will leave you smiling grille to taillight!
Let me know when you check it out, can‘t wait to hear what you think! And be sure to honk if you spot any Easter Eggs I missed the first time around. Happy streaming!
