“Bridge to Terabithia” is based on the very popular children’s book of the same name, written by Katherine Patterson. I haven’t read the book but I must say I’m disappointed by this film version.
The story centers around two 10-year olds – Jess (played by Josh Hutcherson from “Zathura” and “RV”) and Leslie (who played Violet in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”). They become friends when Leslie’s family moves next door to Jess’s family’s farm. Bith kids use their imaginations to create a magical world in the woods in their neighborhood. This fantasy land helps them to deal with problems they are having at home and at school.
The plot is basic, nothing special. There aren’t enough scenes in the woods for the animation to be memorable. The acting is o.k. but no one really stands out. And the messages we’re all supposed to learn are pretty simple.
“Terabithia” is rated PG, but it is definately NOT for very young kids due to some scary scenes and a very emotional plot twist.
On The Official Kid Critic Report Card, “Bridge to Terabithia” gets a C. Yes, we all love movies, but maybe to fully appreciate this story we should all read the book.
Lights Camera Jackson (a.k.a. Jackson Murphy) began his career as a film critic/entertainment reporter in 2006 at the age of 7. Jackson has written nearly 1,000 reviews of new releases. All together he has seen more than 1,500 films. In 2010, Jackson became the youngest person to win a NY Emmy Award, for his on-air movie reviews on Time Warner TV station, Capital News 9.
LCJ appears every Friday morning on WGNA-FM . His movie reviews are also posted on his website, his YouTube channel and the popular website Cultjer.com. He is also a contributing writer for Jerry Beck’s AnimationScoop.com. Jackson hosts the weekly internet pop culture news show “LCJ LIVE” (every Sunday at Noon ET). And “The LCJ Q&A Podcast” features interviews with celebrities and filmmakers. Among those who have joined LCJ on the show are comedy legend Gilbert Gottfried, “Wallace & Gromit” creator Nick Park, Emmy-winning game show host Todd Newton and Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody.
Lights Camera Jackson has been co-starring in photographs with his favorite celebrities since he was 6 years old. “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest appeared in the first. Seacrest was a VIP guest at a local telethon. Jackson, a big fan of “Idol”, approached Seacrest during a break and asked for an autograph. The “Idol” star eagerly obliged. Jackson and Ryan then posed for this photo.
Since then Jackson’s collection of photos with stars from film, TV, stage and sports has grown to over 400. Every one represents a special moment in the life/career of Lights Camera Jackson and includes its own unique backstory.