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November 23, 2008 2:58:58 CST

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3-D Doesn't Ensure an Exciting Journey

Posted Jul 11, 08 10:47 CDT in Arts & Living 

(Newser) – The 3-D adventure flick Journey to the Center of the Earth is generating tepid reviews. The Brendan Fraser vehicle is “rambunctious and ridiculous,” though some younger moviegoers might enjoy it, writes Jan Stuart in the LA Times. Aimed at “kids of an age group more conversant with Dr. Seuss than Jules Verne,” the film’s “minor-league” visuals will score highest among those who have little to compare them with.

“The scariest thing in Journey is that after 50 years, 3-D movies' biggest draw is still the old yo-yo-in-your-face trick,” writes Joe Neumaier in the New York Daily News, who allows, “The cast hits the right notes.” But Peter Travers begs to differ: “in 3-D, the story comes alive, despite the tacky sets and gimmicks,” he writes in Rolling Stone.

Sources Rotten Tomatoes, Los Angeles Times, New York Daily News, Rolling Stone

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In this image released by Warner Bros., Anita Briem, left, Brendan Fraser and Josh Hutcherson, right, are shown in a scene from "Journey to the Center of the Earth."   (AP Photo/Warner Bros.)
In this image released by Warner Bros., Brendan Fraser, left, Josh Hutcherson and Anita Briem, right, are shown in a scene from "Journey to the Center of the Earth."   (AP Photo/Warner Bros.)
Actors Brendan Fraser, left, and Josh Hutcherson of "Journey to the Center of the Earth" make an appearance on MTV's Total Request Live at MTV Studios on Monday, July 7, 2008 in New York.   (AP Photo/Evan Agostini)
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film • movie review • 3D movie • Jules Verne • Brendan Fraser


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