I have to agree, "Ratatouille" is a step up several notches from previous animated films (at least, the ones I've seen). If you go back and watch "Antz" (granted, it's not Pixar) you realize how primitive computer animation was, and how far it's come. But "Ratatouille" is something else entirely.

It's not just a question of textures, shadows, light, and glistening moisture. It's that these things dance. They seem alive. The food in "Ratatouille" made my mouth water.

The one thing that bothered me with the film was the way it took its central conceit too seriously: First we're asked to accept a rat as a talented chef; then we're asked to confront the rats/human separation as a real conundrum. The anthropomorphism becomes a methaphor for class structure and family obligation and so on -- similar to the theme of "The Lion King." But "Ratatouille" handles it in a much smarter way, without pushing too hard. (I hope this makes sense....it's hard to explain, but let me just say that anthropomorphism as a basis for animated stories tends to bother me after a while.)

But "Ratatouille" has much more going for it than a two-worlds-colliding story. It also laces in a Cyrano story told via the rat-human puppetry that develops between the rat and the young chef. It captures the very strict and competitive dynamic of a high-end restaurant's kitchen. Best of all is its handling of the critic, whose evaluation of quality and taste has become soured by disappointment over the years, only to be re-invigorated by an experience that reaches back into his childhoood.

I don't want to give it away, and I feel a bit flaky admitting this, but the "big moment" with the critic at the end brought tears to my eyes. Maybe I am getting sappy as I get older, but "Ratatouille" is the first animated film that actually made me cry a little.

Weird.

Anyway, the film is definitely worth your time, as an adult. Kids will enjoy it too. The film is full of life. Don't pass it up because of your resistance to animal-movies or animated spectacles.

What you describe is a man who is isolated by loneliness. Such people crave attention. Ironically, the more they crave it, the less "natural" they become, the more pathetic and desperate, basically blocking them from the very thing they want. You should spend more time trying to understand him. You might not be able to help him, but realizing that his manner is a product of weakness, probably sadness, might make it easier for you to deal with him effectively.

He does not deserve scorn. What he deserves, instead, is anything that will help him sharpen his game. The man clearly can't edit himself for shit. Maybe you can lead him by example -- treat him to some even more subtle and effective wit. Tell him some new jokes so he'll have some better material to spread around.

You could also attempt to sober him up by asking him serious questions that he can't get cutesy with. He might appreciate somebody who is actually interested in who he is under the lame Mr. Bill references.

If he gets out of hand, you could always just treat him as an adult: By diplomatically, tactfully, and gently letting him know that his jokes get on your nerves a little. You don't have to be stern or confrontational about it -- you can pad it with "I appreciate your lighthearted spirit, but..." and so on. The guy obviously needs help. Maybe you aren't the one to give it. Or maybe you are. But people in this world sometimes need other people to set them on a better course. Becoming distant and cold won't do that.

If things get bad somehow, then talk to your Human Resources department. Tell them that his behavior hampers your ability to function professionally in the office. See what they say. Hopefully it won't lead to negative consequences for him. But it could. Chances are, if it bugs you, it bugs others. There may be a managerial shortcoming here.

I only say all this because I have been that annoying guy, at times. Socially awkward. I know why I was like that -- I was sad and lonely and needed to connect but had no idea how to do it. The reliance on repetitive quotes and references was a failure of imagination, a stagnation, based mostly on isolation and lack of exposure to people who were truly witty.

I am telling you -- this person is very sad. Be kind.