Hey, it's just an action film - but still retains some of the spirit of the books

Rating: 7/10 (10 February 2005)

I'm surprised that this film rates as low as it does (5.3) when I recorded this.
Sure, it's not a "Great" movie, but it's got a lot going for it. The location photography is great. The integration of real and CGI shots is always convincing. The acting never falls below good, and sometimes is excellent.
Most importantly, since it's promoted as an action film, it's stuffed full of action. At the same time, there are scenes that reflect the spirit of the ideas of the original books it portrays. I guess most of these are lost on the 12-16 audience that the film is aimed at, but they are still there.
If you just want to slump in front of the television with your (12+) family, it's hard to see that this film could disappoint.