"That Spielberg guy can make pretty good movies"

Rating: Null/10 (13 November 2011)

As quoted by my 8-year old son right after seeing this, Spielberg's latest movie. Well, ditto. The Adventures of Tintin: The secret of the unicorn is one damn fine adventure yarn and by far the most enjoyable entertainment movie from mr. Spielberg since the original Jurassic Park (-93). Technically it's nothing but well made but production values aside, this movie has a HEART. A honest, warm heart. Something Spielberg's offerings have been lacking for a long time. After Spielberg's "serious season" I found his "War of the worlds" to be cold and cynical. After the travesty of "Indy 4" I was afraid he's just lost his "honest touch" for good. For Tintin I had hopes, but dared not to expect much more than trivial entertainment with fancy graphics. Well, I'm happy to say I got more than I bargained for. Sure we got the best eye-popping technology money can buy, and a polished script, but above all, I say above all, this movie made me feel like a kid again. our basic movie night turned out to offer some great dad & son - time. Provided by Herge, Spielberg & Jackson. Thanks, guys, we'll be waiting for the sequel!
PS. I believe the prolonged 30-year wait helped the movie. First of all, there's technology: only this way the look is right. Peter Jackson was right to persuade Spielberg out of the live-action option. And before Avatar this look wouldn't have been possible. Second, the geeks. Now we got 30+yo fanboys, comic-cons and a ton of movies from comic books to prove that there's money to be made if you invest in a movie from a comic. And that you get better feedback the more loyal you stay to the source material. Third, I think a younger Spielberg would have been too cocky to do it right. Age and a couple of misfires (especially Indy 4) can teach you a few lessons about film - making.