Movie Review: The Spiderwick Chronicles
Something light to cut the mundane 'serious' entries that we've been posting recently... and also because our blog is beginning to grow cyber-cobwebs and cyber-molds. Enjoy!---
Based on a series of children's books of the same name, The Spiderwick Chronicles is a visual treat. The movie, which relied heavily on the special effects is a sensory overload for both the young and old. However, plot wise, it failed to deliver the 'edge of your seat' feeling one would expect from a fantasy/adventure movie. With a film rating of PG-13, it is not too surprising that the action sequences and the plot were a little subdued and may not satisfy the older crowd.
Spiderwick Chronicles is about a family who moves into a run-down house that's about 120 years old. It stars Freddie Highmore, playing a dual role of twin brothers Jared and Simon Grace, Sarah Bolger as Mallory Grace and Mary-Louise Parker as Helen Grace. Jared Grace (Highmore), soon uncovers a secret book left behind by his great grand uncle, Arthur Spiderwick (David Strathairn) about the secret world that exists outside the Spiderwick Estate. With the help of Thimbletack the house brownie (voiced by Martin Short), the Graces come up with a plan to safeguard the house and save all the fantastical creatures from the evil shape-shifting ogre Mulgarath (Nick Nolte). Along for the ride are the hot tempered trolls and goblins that work for Mulgarath, the sweet natured faeries, and the bird-crazy Hogsqueal.
However predictable Spiderwick turned out to be, the story does not drag on with boring explanations and history but rather, it jumps right into action almost only ten minutes into the story. It did have humorous moments in parts provided by the Thimbletack and Hogsquel. Watch only if you have no choice but to babysit five-year olds, or in my case, you have free tickets.
April Zara's rating: 2.5/5 stars
Labels: Discussion, Not about school
