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Film Flashback: Monsters, Inc. Characters
What’s in the closet?
Monsters, Inc. (2001, directed by Pete Docter) takes a fun, charming look at a traditional childhood fear. Ever wonder what happened on the other side of your childhood closet door? Where did those scary monsters come from, and why were they after you? Disney/Pixar’s bright, animated answer features friendship, humor, corporate greed, and lots of doors.
Let’s meet the gang.
James P. “Sulley” Sullivan
Voiced by John Goodman
Even though Sulley is big, hairy, and sports sharp horns, his bright blue and purple coloring, general “plushy toy” appearance, and likeable demeanor make him a teddy bear of a hero. Goodman’s tenor voice and flexible acting chops help create Sulley’s confident, calm, friendly nature; however, he can be fierce when necessary. This “Top Scarer” at Monsters, Inc. counts Mike as his friend as well as apartment-mate.
Trivia: Sulley almost wore glasses, and an earlier version had him with tentacles instead of legs. Ultimately, the animation team felt both details would detract from the audience’s ability to read and pay attention to his facial expressions.
