BY MIKEY MIGO
Like most folk, I remember this book fondly as a child. Sadly, as an adult my experience with the movie was far from fond. I'm a Spike Jonze fan. His music videos and movies have always been a pleasure to watch. What he did with this kids book looks beautiful, but that only carries it so far. The storyline of the movie is flat out "hipster". There's no other way to put it. It's "artsy-emo-eccentric" as I described to a friend, and to be perfectly honest, it lacks substance and heart. Sure there are lots of emotions being thrown at the viewer, but it feels really artificial. I wanted to enjoy this movie, but it was hard. Some kids may like this movie, but I have a feeling that most would be bored out of their mind until they're scared shitless by the creatures. Maybe if you're a child with a beard on your face and Vans on your feet you'll dig it. I sound pretty mean about this movie, but like I said, I am a fan of the director, the book, and the entire cast and full-heartedly wanted to like it. It was just a huge let down for me. Be your own judge. The young man who starred in the movie DID do a great job with the given material. Spike Jonze has proven many times that he's worth the time. Give him yours and decide for yourself. I didn't like this movie really at all, but I still recommend, as weird as that may be.
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