A must-see 3-D

Rating: Null/10 (10 November 2004)

Hopped aboard the Polar Express last night at a media preview at the IMAX in Chicago's Navy Pier. I can't honestly remember the last 3-D movie I went to, but the effect in this marvelous film is nothing short of jaw dropping. With my Harry Caray-sized specs on, it took a few minutes to adjust to the dazzling 3-D presentation, but once immersed, the amazing imagery never failed to deliver.
Obvious highlights are the lost ticket sequence, the runaway train in the ice field, and the hobo skiing sequence. I had a visceral reaction during these intense scenes, but there are many other subtle moments where the depth of realism will draw the viewer into the action. Watch as snowflakes waft within reach, ticket snips shower seemingly within inches of your eyes, or try not to reach out and grab onto a caribou antler as they argue with a red-bearded engineer in their native language.
I've read a few mediocre "professional" reviews of this film's treatment of the original story, including one which found the children's faces disturbing. I found the screenplay to be a wonderful upgrade to the book, but I confess that the technical visual achievement(and audio, for that matter) overwhelmed my appreciation of the plot.
I'm certain the standard 35mm print will look terrific, but to see it 7 stories high in breathtaking 3-D is unlike anything I have ever seen in a theater. Drive the few extra miles if you have to, but find this on the BIG screen and put on the goofy glasses. You'll never forget the experience.