‘Monsters at Work’ Review: Laughter Is What You’re After
New to Disney+, Monsters at Work delves into the events following Mike and Sully’s discovery in Monsters, Inc: that children’s laughter is more powerful than screaming. It explores how this leads to unintended consequences for both veterans and new recruits who work at Monsters, Inc.
The series is from the perspective of Tylor Tuskmon (Ben Feldman), an excited young monster who has always dreamed of becoming a Scarer at Monsters, Inc. However, when Tylors’ first day at his dream job arrives, it does not go smoothly. He arrives at Monsters Inc to find everything is in disarray. During his orientation, it is revealed getting children to scream is out and making them laugh is in. Tylor is horrified to learn that everything he has ever worked for is moot. Because of this drastic change, Tylor is assigned to the Monsters, Inc. Facilities Team (MIFT), where he will work to repair the doors that Jokesters use to enter the human realm.
Before Tylor can comprehend this change, he is introduced to his new coworkers, Val Little (voiced by the delightful Mindy Kaling) and Fritz (voiced by the legendary Henry Winkler). Listening to Val and Fritz enthusiastically and hilariously try to explain Tylors’ responsibilities endears you to both characters instantly. Following the pep talk, Tylor sneakily attempts to enter the Laugh Floor, causing one of the most hilarious moments of the pilot to occur.
Monsters at Work continues with the traditions of Monsters, Inc with laughter, gags, and heartfelt moments. Watching brought on a feeling of nostalgia mixed with excitement at the new possibilities of exploring this world in a more in-depth manner. The series does a great job of balancing familiar faces, while also introducing new characters into the mix. While we only have a small bit window so far into Tylor and his fellow monsters adapting to this new world, the view so far is great. Having the opportunity to follow their journeys and watch them learn new strengths will be exciting and entertaining.
The first two episodes of Monsters at Work are available on Disney+, with new episodes being released each Wednesday.
