The first time we saw a “Sorcerer’s Apprentice” from the Disney studio he was Mickey Mouse, wearing what has become one of the most famous and recognizable hats in movie history. Now, exactly 70 years later, the character is back, but without the hat or mouse ears.
In this live-action version, the apprentice, named Dave, is played by Jay Baruchel. But we first meet Dave as a grade school student. While on a field trip he meets Balthazar Blake, one of three master sorcerer’s who learned under the great Merlin. Balthazar realizes that Dave will be a great sorcerer someday.
10 years later, Balthazar recruits Dave to help him when an evil wizard named Horvath returns to Earth with a plan to take-over Manhattan. It’s a good vs. evil battle to the finish. And there’s also a love story, with Dave getting together with the girl he had a crush on in grade school.
Overall, the best way to describe “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” is predictable. There are very few surprises in the main story, the love story, or the dialogue. Some of the special effects are good and the action scenes, especially a car chase, are well done.
Director Jon Tuterltaub, who also directed the “National Treasure” films, keeps the story moving. He does a great job with the best scene in the film – when Dave tries to use his magic to clean-up the workshop. Sound familiar? The mops come to life and the water gets out of control – the same problem Mickey had 70-years ago. It’s a very clever tribute to the “Fantasia” short.
The performances are solid: Cage keeps it low-key and Baruchel is pretty believable as a guy who suddenly discovers he has all these magical powers. Those two have some nice scenes together. Alfred Molina plays Horvath. He was also in “Prince of Persia”, the other Disney/Jerry Bruckheimer film from this summer. At least he doesn’t kiss and ostrich this time.
The problem with “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” is that it just isn’t exciting enough. It’s rated PG for some fantasy action violence. It’s appropriate for kids 8 and up, who may like it and some adults may enjoy it as well. But I had high hopes for this film when it came out this past summer and, to me, it’s a disappointment.
On The Official Kid Critic Report Card, “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” gets a C+.
But this was a good year for Baruchel, who was also the voice of Hiccup in “How to Train Your Dragon.” He is a young star on the rise.