Probably great for 8 yr olds

Rating: 4/10 (8 December 2006)

But for adults, perhaps not.
The acting of the children is key for this story (as is the script) I think and what I saw I characterize as the producer directing the director to direct the kids to appear as (unknown adjective) as possible. The result was goofy & wooden characters. The acting was so uneven all around.
I'll blame the director.
Then there's the story and script. I can't believe the book I read back in grade 5 or 6 was this inane. I don't want to think it was though I can't remember it at all.
I'll blame the screenwriter.
Special effects were fine.
Huge disappointment for me.