Review: "Jack the Giant Slayer"

From the director of “The Usual Suspects” comes “Jack the Giant Slayer," a mediocre re–imagining of the classic folktale. Nicholas Hoult of “Skins” fame plays the courageous farmhand, who, after opening a portal between our world and the land of giants above, helps rescue the princess (Eleanor Tomlinson) trapped above. Hoult is joined by a knightly Ewan McGregor and a slimy and nefariously–intentioned Stanley Tucci.

It's hard not to be drawn in by the remarkably intense special effects—especially the gruesome computer–animated giants. The problem with “Jack and the Giant Slayer” may be the lack of a target audience; it’s a bit too scary for little kids, yet not clever enough for adults. Despite a predicable plot line, the vivid graphics and likable actors make this film entertaining.

Grade: B

Metacritic: 51%

Rating and run time: PG-13, 114 min.

See if you liked: "Stardus"

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