Fantastic Fairytale

Rating: 9/10 (12 January 2010)

I had previously read the illustrated novel of this story. I had thoroughly enjoyed the book and was keen to see the film. However, two years later I finally got to watch this film.
Needless to say I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story centres around a boy in a small parochial town in England who gets involved in a fantastical adventure.
The film is quite long at two hours but passes quickly. This is helped by the balance between lighter and more serious moments. In terms of cast, you can see the enjoyment they obviously had making this film. I thought the young lead was excellent as the small town boy and thought Michelle Pfeifer was excellent as the villain. I'm glad I bought this film as surely it will warrant further viewing. I would highly recommend this film. It is a perfect escapist fairytale with a lightness of touch that stops it becoming prurient or bogged down in special effects. If you want a great movie for an enjoyable evening of fun and relaxation then you won't go far wrong with this.