Bridge to Terabithia (2007)

User Review

• 

  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  **500TH FILMFED REVIEW** Bridge to Terabithia has the essence of a children's fantasy with a hint of adult drama. This was not the film I thought it was going to be. Looking at the cover, I see plenty of fairies and a luscious kingdom as a backdrop. Sure, those elements are incorporated but the beauty of this melancholic tale is how these friends survive reality. Two friends decide to use their imagination to create a visionary world called Terabithia. Acting as an escape from reality, the two form a close bond where they choose to help each other through situations in reality. Filmed through the perspective of children, we watch their views on certain life qualities: family, friendship, love and loss. The imaginary world juxtaposes with the often harsh reality they reside in. Forceful parents, countless bullies at school, lack of friends...all naturally occurring aspects in one's life. Our protagonist then uses his artistic skills to escape these and his new friend opens his mind to the use of imagination, or more like role-play. The reason why I say melancholic, is because of that ending. Powerful? Sure. Was it needed? Definitely. It shows how developed the main character is throughout his childhood, a very short duration of time. Hutcherson and Robb have beautiful onscreen chemistry, I really adored the attention to detail regarding their friendship. Madison was particularly outstanding as Jess's younger sister. The story was well paced, heartwarming and surprisingly a faithful adaptation. I felt the visual effects were sub-par, especially for a fantasy flick, and the usage of Terabithia felt limited. I wanted more. It just couldn't decide from being a fantasy film or a coming-of-age drama where occasionally the two just do not mix well. Also, a teacher would not ask a student to go to the museum on a weekend. Not in this day and age. However, this is an above average family fantasy drama that can entertain younger audiences and emotionally stimulate mature viewers. Just, open your heart to the film and the ending will hit you. Was executed majestically.

  Like?

  2 member like this review.