In the mindless collection of children's books turned feature films, The Spiderwick Chronicles is just another one to throw atop the pile.
The premise starts with twin boys, Simon and Jared, played by the multitasking Freddie Highmore (August Rush), their sister Mallory (Sarah Bolger, Stormbreaker) and their mother (Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds) who all move into a rundown estate, inherited from their great-uncle.
Jared, the troublemaker out of the group, unlocks secrets of their house and discovers a secret fairy world. The entire movie unfolds from a single book, "The Field Guide," which Jared initially uses to solve riddles and further understand this hidden society. However, the "important" guide is referenced sparingly throughout the novel.
Despite his whimsical personality, Highmore leaves the character of Jared far from entertaining. His persistent and bothersome behavior is typical within the fantasy genre.
Though Highmore is very experienced for his young age, starring in high profile films like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Finding Neverland, his acting skills in Chronicles did not come out well.
Meanwhile, Bolger's Mallory is an improbable character, always conveniently carrying her fencing sword around, helping to defend her family against the evil fairies.
Unfortunately, Chronicles is just another spin-off version of the Harry Potter series - magical creatures in the midst of children "growing up" as they venture out to save those they love from danger.
The best thing to do with The Spiderwick Chronicles is save your nine dollars and wait for the next Harry Potter flick to come out.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
