Not quite the original but Incredibles sequel is a funny and endearing story

Time waits for no man and no animation, but after 14 years Brad Bird’s sequel to his 2004 smash-hit The Incredibles has finally arrived. Like many things in the digital age the length of time it’s taken for the sequel to arrive has definitely had an effect but Bird’s wry, sharply referential storytelling abilities are still able to shepherd the adventures of the Parr family safely home into the hearts and minds of everyone who so enjoyed their original escapade.

Although the original idea of an animated satire for adults more than children of the idea of superheroes seems less original than it did back in 2004, the sequel manages to deliver a zippy, funny and suitably clever take on the formula to allow you to forgive its delay.

The Incredibles — Mr Incredible (voiced by Craig T Nelson), Elastigirl, pictured (Holly Hunter), Violet (Sarah Vowell), Dash (Huck Millner) and baby Jack-Jack are fighting crime and staying under the radar until a recent much publicised and messy operation leads to a call for the abolition of their family and superheroes in general.

Left without any options the parents are at a loss, until they’re offered a lifeline by billionaire businessman Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk) and his sister Evelyn (Catherine Keener) who have a plan to bolster the public image of superheroes and build their brand to the point where the public will demand their return. Only problem is that the Deavor’s research has shown that Elastigirl tests better with the marketing department so Mr Incredible will have to stay at home and watch the kids.

The resulting adventure is sharply scripted, skilfully directed and while not making quite the mark as its predecessor, an entertaining, funny and endearing story of the negotiation of parenting in the modern age and the power of family in the overcoming of adversity.