Rated PG for scary creature action and violence, peril and some thematic elements.

Directed by Mark Waters

Written by Karey Kirkpatrick, David Berenbaum, and John Sayles

Starring Freddie Highmore, Mary-Louise Parker, Nick Nolte, Sarah Bolger, Joan Plowright, Martin Short, and David Strathairn

The wonderful world of The Spiderwick Chronicles combines some of the creative wonders of Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia and then adds a dab of Jumanji for an excellent film for the whole family. The storyline although slight, is an enjoyable treat that gets you involved from the beginning to its mischievous end.

Arthur Spiderwick disappeared from his home leaving behind a daughter Lucinda to fend for herself. However, Lucinda has had a bad time of what her father left behind. It seems that a force of nature gone wild has driven poor Lucinda to a mental institution. The Grace family consisting of impending divorcee Helen and her three children, Jared, Simon and Mallory have inherited the now run-down and secluded Spiderwick house from her great Aunt Lucinda. Jared was against the move from their previous home and becomes the thorn in his mother’s side while also alienating his siblings. Upon finding Arthur Spiderwick’s Field Guide, Jared starts to see goblins and elves. When an Ogre trying to get the Field Guide attacks Jared, he pleas with his sister and brother to help him save the book that could possibly their lives.

The special effects and animatronics in The Spiderwick Chronicles are brilliant. The detail on the hordes of pesky trolls and goblins make them look devilish yet their actions sometimes comical. I enjoyed the fantasy created by these masters and it made the film work. The prize however, is the monstrous Ogre who challenges Jared and his sister in battle. The images of the ugly beast are horrific, but the power of family love that defeats it shows stronger.

Highmore does a terrific job playing both Jared and Simon. The two are so opposite, that you get the feeling they don’t belong in the same family. But, Highmore handles the dialogue, positioning and green screen effects with ease. An upcoming star, he should see his horizon very soon. Plowright makes a wonderful Aunt Lucinda with the interjection of some of her quirky facial expressions. She really shines when Lucinda finally realizes that Jared knows more about the Field Guide than she thought.

Although The Spiderwick Chronicles are in the children’s book section at the library, those who liked the Harry Potter series should also enjoy this film. I loved it, and have hopes for a sequel. The very young may be a little frightened by some of the goblins, so make sure you are sitting close to them during the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: The Spiderwick Chronicles is a wonderful and enjoyable film for the whole family.