Pixar feature ‘Luca’ takes us to the Italian Riviera

Above : The Pixar animated feature “Luca” is streaming on Disney+. (Photo/Pixar)

New weekend, new slate of films to watch. And that’s both in the theater and streaming into your own home.

One of the most anticipated streaming views is “Luca,” the new Pixar animated feature, which is available through Disney+ . ( Note : We obtained a year-long Disney+ subscription when my wife bought a new iPad.)

“Luca,” which earned (as of this writing) a 90 percent fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes , tells the story of a boy living on the Italian Riviera and the sea monster that he befriends. Directed by Enrico Casarosa, it features the voice of Jacob Tremblay (as the title character) and such notable talents as Maya Rudolph and Jim Gaffigan.

Some critical comments:

A.O. Scott of the New York Times: “It’s about the sometimes risky discovery of pleasure, and it’s a pleasure to discover.”

Carla Renata of RogerEbert.com: “Italian shores, pasta and sea monsters make for an enjoyable animated summer tale of friendship reminding audiences of those childhood friendships that shape who we ultimately become.”

Katie Walsh , Tribune News Service: “Another one of Pixar’s wondrous and warm creations; a fantastical tale that’s deeply rooted in human emotion and quandary.”

All of which amounts to a pleasant way to spend at least part of the weekend.