The Spiderwick Chronicles

A run-of-the-mill fantasy adventure.

The storytelling is economical and brisk. In some ways, Waters approaches it more as a pre-teen horror movie.

The result is effective, if too intense for younger children.

Young moviegoers will like the way the film empowers their cinematic peers in this battle of good against evil, though smaller children will probably be scared out of their wits.

Spiderwick Chronicles provides lots of thrills and chills -- so much so that it may be too scary for younger viewers -- but it works best when it implies instead of showing.

Highmore does well playing twins (though one admittedly doesn't do much) but it's the improvements on Mallory's character from the books, Bolger's realistic fencing technique, and the surprisingly fun (albeit not realistic) CGI that work best

Tremendously entertaining and, thankfully, self-contained and resolute.

Above the miscellaneous Harrys, Narnias or Eragones. [Full review in Spanish]

An entertaining and family friendly film.