Chris Columbus and Hollywood surprise the world

Rating: 9/10 (16 November 2001)

I think it's testament to Hollywood and previously mediocre director Chris Columbus that they spent a vast amount of time and money on an entirely foreign film, while demanding nothing from it in the way of big name actors, product placement, gratuitous sex & violence or Americanisation. They really do deserve the return on their investment after demonstrating such faith in its success.
Chris Columbus has shown an unexpected abundance of flair in understanding the British setting, filming a complex revered book, and living up to the massive global hype. Can this really be the director that used to bring us dirge like Home Alone 2? This is the biggest turn-around since Volkswagen bought Skoda. Wow.