Journey To The Centre Of The Earth (PG)
AS AN entry-level action thriller for eight-year-olds which was best seen in cinemas in 3D, this remake of Henry Levin’s 1959 adaptation of Jules Verne’s 1864 novel is a cut above most children’s movies.
Though not quite at the level of last year’s The Last Mimzy and Bridge to Terabithia, it remains an exciting, modern adventure which pays due respects to its B-movie roots.
Brendan Fraser might be no James Mason, whose film won Oscar nominations for art directions, special effects and sound, but as George of the Jungle and The Mummy series have already proved, he’s a rock-solid choice for movies like this.
Professor Trevor Anderson (Fraser) becomes saddled with a youngster in the house – nephew Sean (Josh Hutcherson), son of his brother who disappeared a decade ago.
Before you know it, they are off to Iceland where some lightning bolts take them to the ‘same planet, different world’, along with guide Hannah Ásgeirsson (Icelandic star Anita Briem who once appeared in Doctors).
Also available to buy for £19.99 (Blu-ray £23.99), the extras include director and actor commentary. + Another film also lacking the 3D effect in cinemas is Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best Of Both Worlds Concert (U), which is also available to buy for £15.99 with extras including additional songs and a sing-along with the movie option.
