RACE TO WITCH MOUNTAIN
RYAN: I was really looking forward to seeing “Race to Witch Mountain” because I fondly remember the original “Witch Mountain” films from our childhood.
CAROLINE: I know I loved them too, but I barely remember them. And I wasn’t that psyched for this new one because now I’m an adult.
RYAN: Ha. This is definitely a family film but it’s got some of the best action scenes I’ve ever seen in a kids’ movie. Special effects have become truly amazing in recent years.
CAROLINE: Since I was unable to attend this screening with you, I must know – was Dwayne Johnson all you wanted him to be and more?
RYAN: After seeing him in this and on SNL where I believe he could give Hugh Jackman a run for his money hosting the Oscars, I will never call him The Rock again. Dwayne Johnson has my stamp of approval. The man has chops!
CAROLINE: He better be careful though; if he keeps doing these kids’ movies, he’s gonna get pigeon-holed. I’d like to see some range from him.
RYAN: Well, in his next film, he’s playing the Tooth Fairy, so don’t hold your breath. Maybe this is his niche. The movie co-stars Carla Gugino who’s also in theaters now in “Watchmen,” AnnaSophia Robb who we loved as Violet in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Tom Everett Scott, Garry Marshall and the little boy from “The Seeker.”
CAROLINE: The premise seems kind of interesting. Aren’t the kids supposed to be aliens or something?
RYAN: Yes, and that’s clearly different from the first two movies. But the original kid actors from the ’70s movies had decent cameos in this movie, which was cool. There are also tons of homages to the original two, so parents who are seeing this now will enjoy it as much as their kids do.
CAROLINE: I suppose that makes it a little more palatable for the grown-ups.
RYAN: The action was so good that I almost wished it were an R-rated movie. I wanted some language and a little violence to take it to the next level.
CAROLINE: Yes, but it’s a kids’ movie.
RYAN: I know, and the ‘tweens are gonna love it. There’s a moment about a quarter of the way through that tipped its hat to another famous Disney movie, which thrilled me to no end. It’s one of my favorite movie moments ever.
— BOTTOM LINE —
RYAN: The story is great, and intriguing; it held my interest the whole time. You would have enjoyed it at least a little bit, I’m sure. It’s a truly good family film, so take the kids this weekend!
— RATING —
