Surprisingly well done adaptation of a mesmerising story.

Rating: 8/10 (17 December 2013)

After some dire disappointments I almost gave up on 3D, but Life of Pi 3D truly surprised me! The 3D is not at all over the top, often barely noticeable, but when it does come out it's a true addition to the movie- experience and (often subtly) really livens up the film. The intro with images from the zoo is a lovely herald to that.
The religious aspect, quite dominantly present in the book, is toned down and charming, even though it is inevitably a simplification. However, the atmosphere of an introspective journey that makes a young man question the nature of faith itself is well kept throughout the movie, which is probably why it works so well as it does. Also, it's simply very good filmmaking and the entire time on the life raft is surprisingly captivating. Imagine having to act all of that versus a virtual tiger!
Life of Pi is a very well done adaptation of a notorious hard book to film, which deserves to be seen in 3D. And don't worry, you don't need to have read the book to enjoy. (but you should read it though!)