It's been a long time since I've seen a good family-oriented adventure film, and much of the movies nowadays seem to border on more action and drama and less of the excitement and thrill. Fortunately, the start of the year bears fruit in the form of a fantastic voyage, headlined by The Great One himself, The Rock, and Sir Michael Caine - Journey 2: The Mysterious Island! Before getting down to the review, special thanks again goes to Warner Bros. Philippines and SM MoA IMAX Theater for the advanced screening earlier this week! Seeing it in IMAX and 3D was exciting, not to mention getting a bonus screening of The Dark Knight Rises Prologue before the movie proper!
Movie: Journey 2: The Mysterious Island
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Michael Caine, Josh Hutcherson, Vanessa Hudgens, Luis Guzman
Release Date: February 3, 2012 (International), February, 10, 2012 (US)
I've never seen the previous flick, the 2008 adaptation of Journey to the Center of the Earth with Brenden Fraser, but Journey 2 isn't necessarily something that requires knowledge of the first movie to get people going. It stands apart by setting itself as a "side adventure" instead of a direct sequel, with only actor Josh Hutcherson returning once again as a teenaged Sean Anderson. Joining him and taking on the role of male lead is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who plays Sean's stepfather Hank Parsons, who cares deeply for his new family and tries to set the right example to his new son despite the strained relationship both of them have. That however is put the test when Sean receives a cryptic message from his long lost grandfather Alexander (played by the great Michael Caine), who confirms in his letter that he is stranded in The Mysterious Island. Helping him solve the riddle and find the coordinates to the island, Hank reluctantly accompanies Sean in his journey, and once in Palau, both enlist the services of helicopter pilot Gabato (Luis Guzman) and his daughter Kailani (Vanessa Hudgens). Following the trail however gets them caught in a cyclone... Which leads them directly to the mysterious island! From there, Hank and co. run into Alexander himself, and the adventure quickly turns into one of danger and survival!
Having a bit of The Mummy and National Treasure elements in it, Journey 2 is the kind of adventure one can just easily sit through and suspend any beliefs that may defy reality or what not. Having The Rock show his acting chops here proves to be the highlight of this adventure, as he gets to do the "Pek Pop" and utilize his charm and singing talents at the same time. The fact that he's come up so far in Hollywood proves the wrestling man has got what it takes, and this adventure proves he's the best at what he does! Josh Hutcherson returns to the role of Sean Anderson, and acting as the kid who idolizes adventure and craves for it will make younger audiences relate to this flick too. Vanessa Hudgens adds looks and smarts as the beautiful Kailani, who tempers the comic relief father of hers Gabato, played by the funny and entertaining Luis Guzman. Also, don't forget that Sir Michael Caine is here, and his presence and wisdom compliments the thrill of adventure his character Alexander Anderson provides! Without a doubt, this movie is for family and for kids who need something mixed with a bit of history and fiction. Anyone familiar with author Jules Verne and his works will get a kick out of the references here,
Bottomline, Journey 2 may not take itself seriously, but that's the reason it exists, and it certainly captivates those looking for good old fashioned adventure and comedy. Families looking to take their kids to an exciting world full of action and special effects, look no further. It's also best seen in 3D, and it will be worth the price of admission with all the effects put into this flick! Watch it, and be amazed!
Rating - 4/5
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