Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I'm a fan of the Alex Rider novels, so I approached the DVD with some trepidation. I love the books. Can't wait for the next one. But the movie release never even came close to my city, which is the capital of the state. That concerned me.
Alex Rider is a 14-year-old spy that was trained by his Uncle Ian to be strong and independent. Perhaps not a spy. We never know for sure. But through the six books that have been published so far, we've gotten to know Alex quite well. He's not your average kid, but neither is he happy-go-lucky about being a spy. The movie depicts him, more or less, as that, though, and that's one of the parts where book fans will object.
What you see on the screen is very much a more light-hearted version of Alex Rider, bordering on slapstick comedy at times. Think of the original book series by author/creator Anthony Horowitz as Sean Connery's James Bond as opposed to Roger Moore's take on that character. Book Alex is more subdued, more desperate, and less sure of himself. But the curiosity and determination is the same.
Overall, the movie is an enjoyable experience. The action scenes are well choreographed (I loved the opening escape by Ian Rider and the later junkyard fight with the rope by Alex) and play big. Adrenaline and rock music kick in and propel the viewer through the film.
Mickey Rouke played the villain, and his portrayal was a little over the top and annoying at times. The makeup was way too heavy as well, even by kid standards. The Alan Blunt character was too thin as well. Blunt comes off much better in the novels.
OPERATION: STORMBREAKER will hopefully be the first of the Alex Rider franchise, though. The DVD is a great rental for family night or as an addition to the family library for action flicks suitable for the younger audience that will also hold the attention of adults.
But do try to read one of the books or put one in the hands of your 10-14 year-olds. They'll be glad you did, and they're on Accelerated Reader lists everywhere.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Alex Rider - Operation Stormbreaker (Widescreen Edition) (2006)
Studio: Genius Products IncRelease Date: 05/22/2007Run time: 93 minutesRating: Pg
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