Bridge to Terabithia (2007)

This is perhaps the saddest book I have ever read, or more accurately, have had read to me, and the movie does not disappoint. I was read the book at quite a young age, so do not remember specifics, but from what I remember, Bridge to Terabithia is every bit as wrenching. This is the story of two children who become friends and create a make-believe world within which to escape from those who make the real world too difficult. I really enjoyed this movie, it was very nostalgic, and the ending, while devastating, is excellent. Bridge to Terabithia is billed as a children's movie, but I question whether or not I would show it to someone below the age of 13. There are some very adult situations at the end that might be tough for a child to handle. The special effects in this movie are intentionally geared towards a younger audience, but they are pretty sweet nonetheless. One thing I did not like was how the Dad was portrayed. Maybe it was accurate to the book, but he seemed a little more heavy-handed than he really needed to be. The lead little girl in this movie is really good and extremely likable. The boy is a little bland, and at first, I got the impression that it was how the director wanted the character played, but the actor never really comes out of it like you feel the character should. That said, I do not mean to be too critical of a child actor; overall he does a pretty fair job. My wife was unfamiliar with the book, and was not interested in watching a kids movie with me, but I am happy that I saw it. I give Bridge to Terabithia 3 stars.