For what it's worth, I enjoyed Cars 2 very much, and disagree with all the "critics" who are bashing it. Critics are just people with opinions. As far as I'm concerned, Lasseter and Pixar's reputations have NOT been "tarnished".
Here are some early thoughts after one opening night viewing (at midnight, in 3D). I will put spoilers in white:
I really liked the movie, but not as much as the original. That's not a knock, though, as the original is my NUMBER TWO Pixar film! (yes, I'm one of the Pixar fans who LOVED Cars and doesn't rank it last). The original tugged at my heartstrings more, and touched me very deeply.
I should stress, however, that Cars 2 is NOT a soulless film without heart - it had its warm and sweet moments. It just didn't touch me as deeply as the first.
But there is plenty to like about Cars 2. I found myself laughing out loud several times during the movie. I enjoyed being able to spend some time in the world of these beloved characters once again; and meeting new characters in that world; and the settings in Japan, France, Italy, and the UK were beautiful and brilliantly realized.
As is the case for almost all Disney Animated Classics and Pixar films, I enjoyed it enough for a second or even third theatrical viewing before it leaves, and to own it on DVD. After one viewing, I'd place it my 7th fave of the 12 Pixar films - very respectable, considering the competition. This place could move up or down a few places after a few more viewings, although I think it's safe to say that it won't crack my Top 4 or bottom 3.
So when critics keep saying it's not up to "Pixar" standards, I heartily disagree. Of recent "critically acclaimed" Pixar films, I would rank Ratatouille and Up higher, but I preferred Cars 2 over Toy Story 3 and especially over WALL-E.
Here are a few more random thoughts below, with spoilers in white. Since I deliberately avoid reading about anticipated movies before they come out, I knew almost nothing about the plot before seeing it, other than what I saw in trailers:
I really got a kick out of the Brent Musburger cameo (as Brent Mustangberger), filling in for Bob Costas from the first film. He even got in one of his trademark "You are looking live" during the telecast of the Italy section of the race.
Although Lightning Mc Queen is in the film throughout, Mater plays an even bigger role in the story.
I was sad that Doc Hudson's character was apparently killed off (he is referred to as being no longer with them, or something like that). Kind of odd, because cars wouldn't really "die" unless they blew up or something. Even a bad engine can be replaced, and the same with other bad parts.
I enjoyed the International flavor of this one. It was really nothing like the original in many ways, so no one can accuse them of just retreading old ground. Although, part of the charm of, and reason I liked the original so much, was because of Radiator Springs and it's residents, who all had a much smaller role in this one, except for Lightning and Mater. I was surprised Sally had such a small part. Perhaps if they do a "3", we'll get to spend more time in Radiator Springs again.
The spy plot was interesting, although it unfortunately took a lot of attention away from the race itself. One thing that I liked about the first film was the developed rivalry between "The King", Chick Hicks, and Lightning. In the sequel, I would have enjoyed seeing more of the race - more of the rivalry between Lightning and the Italian car, and also to have developed more info about some the other racers, and more racing footage - and letting this play out to the conclusion of the race in the UK sequence.
I enjoyed the scene where Guido and Luigi get to visit their homeland, Italy! Really charming. There were so many amusing, charming little details in the foreign locales and some fun in-joke/references to other Pixar films.