Journey to the Center of the Earth is based on the classic 864 science fiction novel by Jules Verne. The story involves a professor who leads his nephew and hired guide down a volcano in Iceland to the “centre of the Earth“.  They encounter glow in the dark birds, the lost ‘dinosaurs’ and many other prehistoric elements alive and thriving. 

New Line Cinema and Walden Media’s adaptation of the classic story stars  Brendan Fraser (”Crash,” “The Mummy” films), Josh Hutcherson (”Bridge to Terabithia”) and Anita Briem (”The Tudors”). The film marks the big screen directorial debut of Academy Award-winning visual effects veteran Eric Brevig (”Total Recall,” “Pearl Harbor”).

Pros:  Loved the film, it was entertaining and even had me overly anticipating various areas because the special effects were so streamlined, well edited and colorful.  You’re so caught up in the possibilities that you’re caught off guard in some areas which help keep the movie from becoming stagnant.  It had several scenes that were funny and teen actor, Josh Hutcherson, is a good actor who really had me tearing up at one pivotal point in the movie.  He’s a teen actor who’s really able to tap into his emotions and deliver. Editing and cinematography were great.  The director’s vision was very crisp and colorful which only added to the actor’s interaction and dialogue.

Cons: Brendan Fraser’s one liner comments although as typical for him now as was Arnold Swartzenegger’s were, were still cute and fresh put sadly, could eventually get ‘annoying’.  It was also kind of short to me.  Just when you’re getting into the adventure, the momentum keeps going and before you know it it’s over.  On the flip side, the direct was smart enough not to ‘drag’ scenes out. 

Film Reviews 2 Go Rating:  Producer’s Pack = Good!

Definitely worth checking out whether you have kids along or not!