Bringing the world of imagination to life
We picked up this review of “Arthur and the Invisibles” by Rachel Spear as featured on 2theadvocate.com because – differently from some harsh critics the movie is being receiving in the U.S., the imperfection but also the great things you can find in the latest Luc Besson cinematic adventure are offered here from an unbiased point of view.
“Luc Besson’s “Arthur and the Invisibles” may not be perfect, but it is definitely an energized fantasy flick that is fun for the family.
This 1960s story opens with Arthur, a lonely 10-year-old boy (Freddie Highmore) who lives with his grandmother (Mia Farrow). Back in Connecticut from boarding school, Arthur discovers that his grandmother is having financial difficulty and is facing the loss of her house. This may not be the most original storyline, but the interesting tidbits and details make the movie enjoyable.
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Arthur’s determination to save the house is larger than life, but to complete his mission, he must shrink to a smaller-than-insect size and enter the animated world of the Minimoys. Colorful and cute, this imaginary place is sure to capture the youthful viewer’s attention.
Teaming up with the Minimoy’s Princess Selenia (Madonna) and Prince Betameche (Jimmy Fallon), Arthur journeys to find the treasure that his now-missing grandfather once hid.
No quest is complete without swords and battles, but it’s the high-speed rides down the waterfall and in the toy car that keep the film moving and exciting. Although these episodes greatly resemble the adventures in “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” the embellished animation adds a new (and beautiful) twist. In fact, I would not be surprised if these rides were one day recreated at a Disney-like amusement park.
Unfortunately, the journey seemed too short. The three quickly reached Evil M (David Bowie), the dark villain behind it all. Immediately after I heard the voice of the Goblin King from “Labyrinth” (1986), I wondered if Bowie’s secret calling was to be a wicked character in a children’s fantasy film.
Although at times this movie does have a “done-before” feeling, “Arthur and the Invisibles” breaks the mold by introducing an ingenious reggae, record-spinning scene, featuring animated characters voiced by Snoop Dogg and Anthony Anderson. During this inventive and music-filled incident, sparks begin to fly between Arthur and Selenia. This love-connection is actually the most disturbing aspect of the entire film — a 10-year-old boy is not looking for love.
Aren’t they still at that age where girls have cooties?
Can we not make a movie without interweaving threads of romance?
I may be bothered by the affection between the two, but every film has its flaws. “Arthur and the Invisibles” is just lucky to have an action-packed voyage and fast-paced dialogue to overshadow its imperfections. On top of this, the great cast and spectacularly animated set bring this world of imagination to life.”