As little kids, we all fell asleep to our parents narrating Maurice Sendak’s tale of the adventures of Max and the Wild Things, dreaming of the adventures we could have as the ruler of a distant land. Forty years after its publication, the much-beloved and anticipated children’s story, Where the Wild Things Are, has finally made it to the silver screen.
We are introduced to the lonely eight-year-old Max (Max Records) as he strives to be noticed by his sister (Pepita Emerichs) and her friends. When a snowball fight leads to temper tantrums, Max is sent to his room without supper. Hungry and alone, his imagination takes over, and we are transported together to the land of the Wild Things, where Max declares himself as king to avoid the obvious alternative — being eaten.
Converting a 340-word book into a full-length feature film is no easy task, and Spike Jonze must be applauded for his commendable effort. To smooth the storybook-to-screen transition, he gave the individual monsters names and personalities — a major leap from the sparse descriptions given in the text. The result is extraordinary, and with the help of celebrity voices like those of Lauren Ambrose and James Gandolfini, we can grow emotionally attached to the giant, furry creatures. Some may find the film’s themes, including romantic affairs and deep-seated issues, too psychologically intense for an elementary school audience, but teenagers and parents are sure to love this charming tale.
Shot in Australia, the film’s scenery is awe-inspiring, and the high budget technology makes the viewing experience a true adventure. The plot may be somewhat lacking, but the journey down your childhood memory lane, combined with the striking cinematography, makes the trip to the theater worthwhile. Get ready to let your inner child break out and roar — if only for 90 minutes.
3.5 Stars Directed by: Spike Jonze Starring: Max Records, Catherine Keener, James Gandolfini, Forest Whitaker Rated PG, 94 minutes
