Why isn't Pixar as good as it used to be?
Clockwise from left: Luca (Image: Pixar); Onward (Screenshot: Pixar); Toy Story 4 (Screenshot: Pixar) Graphic : Baraka Kaseko  At this point, Pixars legacy as the most beloved of American animation houses is probably secure: No other studio so regularly earns the adoration of audiences, critics, and awards voters alike. All the same, its difficult not to notice that the output of Disneys acclaimed younger sibling has waned a bit in quality and imagination since that magic early run of animated triumphs, the first dozen or so feature released by the Bay Area dream factory. On a brand new episode of Film Club, A.A. Dowd and Katie Rife discuss what makes Pixar at its finest so specialand also try to get to the bottom of why this once infallible creative collective isnt quite firing on all cylinders anymore. Meanwhile, those curious about Luca can check out a special bonus episode on the studios latest all-ages adventure, which hit Disney+ today. Advertisement  Listen to the podcast above, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, and give us a five-star rating to help other listeners find us. And while youre there, check out The A.V. Clubs other podcasts, Push The Envelope and Dial M For Maple.