I just watched the new movie, STARDUST, which I really enjoyed. Ironically, I'd picked up the book a few years ago at an auction, in a box of books I bought for a buck. The book caught my eye-- I recognized the author Neil Gaiman's name-- so I read it.
The story is a fantasy about a magical world. I'm not surprised they made a movie out of the book. With the Hobbit trilogy, the Harry Potter series so successful, it makes sense that film studios are looking for more fantasy and magic stories in the same genre.
This one has some great acting, with Robert DeNiro playing his part both brilliantly and hilariously. No, this is not a comedy, but DeNiro adds some wonderful levity and some surprises the trailers don't forewarn you of and spoil. .
It's not a movie that is intellectually challenging. It's light, whimsical and lyrical, with witches, unicorns, flying ships, and plenty of magical spells and incantations.
Clare Danes does a great job playing a unique roll, which I won't describe to avoid ruining the story. Michelle Pfeifer makes a sometimes beautiful, always menacing and evil witch queen.
The special effects are smooth and fun to experience, even impressing my 23 year old cinemaphile son.
This is pure escapism, not a bad thing. It definitely has its uplifting, heartwarming moments. Give it a try. You won't regret it.
