Beautiful Book, Beautiful Film

Rating: 8/10 (15 November 2004)

"The Polor Express" is a wonderful Christmas book by Chris Van Allsburg. The artwork of the book has been amazingly transformed to film in Zemeckis' film.
Many reviews have ridiculed either the quality of animation or the absurdity of the prolonged story. I think that this film did an admirable job at making a short picture book come to life in a wonderful tale on screen.
I know that if I were a child again, this film would capture my heart. It nearly did that and I am an adult. I honestly think that children of all ages will enjoy this story as a wonderful Christmastime treat.
There are so many small details that take the story telling in the film to a greater depth that is not possible in a book. It is a very good companion to the original book but in no way does it take its place. However, the film remarkably does not try to overshadow its source material like most book to screen transitions.
At times the film gets lost in trying to create conflict to prolong the story, but it is worth going to see with family and friends if just to watch the beautiful animation come to life. The story's true essence is still present and it is filled with beautiful music by Alan Silvestry.
Read the picture book with your family this Christmas and also enjoy the film. I know that you will love both.