Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Formulaic-but-exciting family action-adventurer.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008)
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 15 parent reviews
Parents say this film is a fun and engaging adventure that appeals to family audiences, with action and excitement suitable for children aged 7 and up, though some scenes might be intense for younger viewers. While it lacks the depth of being a faithful adaptation, it provides thrilling, visually impressive moments and minimal negative content, making it enjoyable for parents and children alike.
- family-friendly
- exciting action
- suitable for ages 7+
- minimal negative content
- visually impressive
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 38 kid reviews
Kids say that this movie offers a mix of excitement and cheese, making it a fun but sometimes silly family adventure. While opinions vary greatly, many find it entertaining for younger audiences with its light humorous elements, action-packed sequences, and some scary moments, though others criticize the CGI and plot as lacking depth.
- exciting family adventure
- cheesy humor
- entertaining for kids
- light scary moments
- weak CGI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
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.
Is It Any Good?
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?
Talk to Your Kids About ...
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?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 11, 2008
- On DVD or streaming : October 27, 2008
- Cast : Anita Briem , Brendan Fraser , Josh Hutcherson
- Director : Eric Brevig
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : New Line
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Animals ( Dinosaurs ) , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Book Characters
- Run time : 89 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : intense adventure action and some scary moments.
- Last updated : January 8, 2026
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