Review: 'Win or Lose' – Pixar's Bold Experiment in Storytelling
- Details
- Category: New Series and Movie Reviews
- Published: Thursday, 20 February 2025 13:05
- Written by Lupe R Haas
Pixar Animation Studios ventures into new territory with its first original animated series, Win or Lose, now streaming on Disney+. This eight-episode series is unlike anything Pixar has produced before, and its unconventional storytelling approach may take time to resonate with audiences.
A Unique Narrative Structure
Win or Lose follows eight different characters leading up to a championship softball game. Each episode presents the perspective of a different individual involved in the event, including a lovesick umpire, insecure young players, and their overbearing parents.
The voice cast includes Will Forte, Rosa Salazar (ALITA: BATTLE ANGEL, MAZE RUNNER), Rosie Foss, Josh Thomson, Milan Elizabeth Ray, Dorien Watson, Izaac Wang, Chanel Stewart, Lil Rel Howery, Melissa Villaseñor, Jo Firestone, Flula Borg, Kyleigh Curran, Jaylin Fletcher, Erin Keif, Tom Law, Beck Nolan, Orion Tran, and Rhea Seehorn.
The series premiered on February 19, 2025, with the first two episodes released simultaneously. Subsequent episodes will be released weekly on Wednesdays, concluding on March 12, 2025.
First Impressions
The first four episodes were made available to the press, offering a preview of Pixar’s new direction.
- Episode 1: Laurie – The premiere introduces the characters and sets the stage for the series. It focuses on Laurie, the coach's daughter, who struggles with self-doubt that manifests as a creature only she can see. The weight of her anxiety burdens her, but by the end of the episode, she learns to overcome her fears—a familiar theme in Pixar’s storytelling
- Episode 2: Blu – This episode abruptly shifts the focus away from the young athletes, following Blu, the game’s umpire, who is searching for love on a dating app. While the overarching theme of self-confidence remains, the drastic change in perspective raises questions about the show’s target audience.
- Episode 3: Rochelle – The story returns to the kids, centering on Rochelle, the team’s star player, who faces financial obstacles in pursuing a major opportunity. With an unreliable and irresponsible mother, Vanessa, Rochelle takes matters into her own hands, setting up a conflict that will likely unfold in the remaining episodes.
- Episode 4: Vanessa – This episode shifts focus again, this time to Vanessa, an aspiring social media influencer struggling to provide for Rochelle and her infant. While it’s commendable to see a Latina character in the mix, Vanessa’s wardrobe and characterization feel stereotypical, resembling an exaggerated East Coast portrayal that may not sit well with all viewers. Voiced by Rosa Salazar, the actor's energetic vibe brings a vibrant characterization to the bubbly persona.
Visuals & Animation Style
Departing from the traditional Pixar look, Win or Lose adopts a stylized 3D animation style designed to mimic a hand-drawn aesthetic. The characters feature exaggerated, cartoony proportions, and 2D-inspired elements like motion lines add a unique visual flair. While distinctive, the style may take some getting used to for fans of Pixar’s more polished film animation.
A Shifting Focus That May Divide Audiences
The biggest challenge Win or Lose faces is its inconsistent target audience. While some episodes focus on young athletes, others explore adult struggles, such as dating and single parenthood. Will children relate to an older man's dating life or a mother’s personal crisis while also rooting for young characters on the field? This constant shift may leave viewers unsure of who the series is truly for.
Final Verdict
Despite its narrative inconsistencies, Win or Lose carries Pixar’s signature heart, delivering positive messages about self-worth and overcoming struggles. However, its unconventional storytelling approach and fluctuating focus may make it a divisive experience. Whether audiences embrace this bold new format remains to be seen.