A pleasant diversion

Rating: 7/10 (11 January 2009)

A rather long film, but I thought, mostly enjoyable. The story is pretty thin, so don't expect any epiphanies, but it was a very well-crafted flick. The makeup and computer enhancements were really amazing. I especially enjoyed the first half of the movie where Benjamin was still "young" and the actor who was playing the role had his head supplanted by a computer-inserted version of Brad Pitt's (who is made up to look like he's 70-somethihng). It was kinda cute seeing an withered old-man with a young boy's sensibilities and innocence.
So, anyway, go expecting a sorta fairytale for adults, but don't expect any heavy "message", though it does try to convey one. The message is just a little too vague and lightweight to really communicate. Do expect to be blown away by the sets, makeup and special effects, as they are really amazing. And expect a fluffy, mostly meaningless, just about pointless diversion. It's fun, though a tad long...