The Spiderwick Chronicles

Mark S. Waters's adaptation of the popular fantasy novels The Spiderwick Chronicles tells the tale of the Graces, a family who must adapt to their new strange surroundings. As the story begins, twin brothers Jared and Simon, along with their sister Mallory and their mother, move away from the big ...more

Never underestimate the power of a child’s imagination. That’s what the excellent, fantastical family fun adventure The Spiderwick Chronicles effectively illustrates. Based on the popular book series, the film enraptures, regardless of age. It’s a treat to get lost in this film and its fairies, ogres, hobgoblins, and other assorted creatures of another realm. Freddie Highmore does double duty and is doubly sweet in the roles of twin brothers Jared and Simon, the former who gets blamed for ...more

Freddie Highmore adds to his extensive prepubescent resumé with The Spiderwick Chronicles, an engaging and occasionally touching fantasy that's refreshing for what it isn't: a 21st century Jumanji. Playing twins, the young actor shows veteran maturity by giving them distinct personalities, instead of forcing audiences to differentiate them by the color of their shirts. That Highmore's work takes top billing in this analysis, rather than the film's fantasy world and digital creature effects, is ...more