Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008) - PG

Formulaic-but-exciting family action-adventurer.

Rating: PG for intense adventure action and some scary moments. Studio: New Line Cinema Directed By: Eric Brevig Cast: Brendan Fraser, Josh Hutcherson, Anita Briem Running Time: 89 minutes Release Date: 07/11/2008 Genre: Action/adventure

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that there's plenty for kids to love in this swashbuckling adventure that brings Jules Verne's classic novel to life. Some special effects may be scary for younger tweens, especially the dinosaurs and other creatures that attack humans -- and especially when viewed in 3-D. But there's hardly any swearing and there are plenty of role models, notably a female mountain guide who clearly isn't a damsel in distress.

Families can talk about what the journey means for all three lead characters. On its face, this is a thrilling adventure, but how does it affect them emotionally? Does it bring them closure? Does the movie do Verne's book justice? If so, how? If not, why not? Do you think the movie is trying to convey any particular messages?

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: S. Jhoanna Robledo

Ever since his brother, Max, disappeared in Iceland a decade ago, scientist Trevor Anderson (Brendan Fraser) has slowly watched the laboratory they built together slide into obscurity. He's lost his passion for teaching, and on top of everything, he's supposed to care for his estranged nephew, Sean (Josh Hutcherson), for 10 days -- after not seeing him for years. While going through Max's personal effects with Sean, Trevor discovers clues that could explain his brother's mysterious disappearance. With the help of mountain guide Hannah (Anita Briem), the two set off to retrace Max's steps, only to unwittingly embark on a journey unlike any other.

JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH touts itself as being the first digital 3-D feature, and there are moments when the investment seems to pay off. When the dinosaur looms over you, it definitely looms. But for the most part, there simply aren't enough scenes in which the technology appreciably makes a contribution. Which isn't to say that the special effects aren't fantastic -- they are. They'll keep audiences, especially the young viewers the movie seems targeted to, on the edge of their seats. And the world depicted is indeed fantastical -- perfectly Vernian.

The lead actors exhibit a wonderful rapport. It's a good thing: They're pretty much together for two-thirds of the movie. Briem is especially good; earnest but not saccharine. And Hutcherson, from Bridge to Terabithia, continues to impress. But the dialog is stilted, especially in the beginning, and the eventual bonding between Trevor and Sean seems forced. Why not skip the rote setup and just jump into the action instead?

Fans might also like other adventure films, including 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, the 1959 version of Journey to the Center of the Earth, and any movie on our Fantastic Movie Voyages list.

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Content		CS	adults	kids
Content
Sexual Content Two sweet kisses.
Violence Somewhat violent but not gory scenes of carnivorous plants attacking humans, dinosaurs feasting on anything that moves, and flying fish on a rampage.
Language The word "schist" is used as a replacement for "s--t."
Message
	Social Behavior No damsels in distress here, just a woman clearly capable of taking care of herself and others, which is nice to see in this type of movie. A distant uncle and a surly teen find common ground.
	Commercialism A fair amount, including mentions of Mountain Dew, PSP, and The Family Guy, plus signage for Iceland Air and the make-believe laboratory where Trevor works.
	Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco