After a few adventure films released in the 2008 summer (many of rather average quality), we were eagerly awaiting the arrival of Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D in theaters. Especially because it wasn’t a typical remake, but a new story, set in modern times, that gives credence to everything written by Jules Verne. Furthermore, it was released with 3D technology, allowing us to enjoy the film’s special effects in a new dimension.
What’s it about?
The story introduces Trevor Anderson (Brendan Fraser), a scientist who has just received terrible news: his late brother’s laboratory, where he works, is about to be closed. Shortly after, Anderson receives a visit from his nephew, who plans to spend 10 days with him (and whom he hasn’t seen since he was very young). When the boy’s mother leaves and the two are left alone, they discover Trevor’s brother’s (and his nephew’s, Sean’s, father) copy of Journey to the Center of the Earth.
In it, they find mysterious notes that lead Trevor to believe that when he disappeared, he was searching for tangible proof of the existence of something related to Verne’s work. Without a second’s hesitation, Trevor sets off for Iceland, and, as life would have it, his nephew ends up accompanying him. There, they will discover that what Verne wrote was anything but science fiction.
The Movie
In the most classic vein of the adventure genre, Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D allows us to enjoy a very entertaining film. It has practically everything: the essence of Verne’s work, with all the dangers and emotions that this entails, and an updated story that is believable. There are plenty of references for those familiar with the book, but the film is enjoyable even if you haven’t read it. This is thanks to the visual spectacle that we are immersed in if we are watching the film in 3D (it is important to see it in this format).
Colorful birds, effects, and a multitude of objects will approach us while we have our glasses on (from the film’s opening logo to the credits). The great thing about implementing the Real D Cinema 3D system is that it not only allows us to zoom in and expand the distance of objects or elements in the film so that they touch the audience, but it also gives prominence to everything we see on screen.
Even the characters will be contoured and have a different dimension, closer to us, than what we usually see in traditional films. The result is gratifying and brings a bit of freshness to traditional films. The film itself is entertaining, with action, humor, and a well-developed, balanced mix of drama and adventure so that no one, regardless of age, feels out of place.
Today, if we don’t watch the film in 3D at home, because this technology has already fallen into disuse, we will still enjoy a very entertaining production.
The Cast
Brendan Fraser delights us with a performance on par with the best roles he gave us in his golden age. He doesn’t seem listless as in the last installment of The Mummy, but rather euphoric and deeply immersed in his character. He leads the film throughout, and he seems relaxed, not as square or muscular as his last portrayal of Rick O’Connell which at the time was a bit disappointing.
The co-stars, young Josh Hutcherson and Anita Briem, do a very good job, especially Hutcherson, who after his roles in Zathura and Bridge to Terabithia confirmed that he was a potential star. As for the direction, it is directed by Eric Brevig, a former special effects technician who made his film debut with this work.
Conclusion
Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D is a very well-executed, fun, and original idea. The use of 3D glasses brings a breath of fresh air and provides greater incentive to see the film. But, as we told you, you’ll also have a good time if you watch it without 3D. Seeing Brendan Fraser in an adventure film is always an added incentive, as he’s one of the greatest actors of his generation. It was a shame he didn’t appear in the sequel, where he was sorely missed. Perhaps there’s still hope of seeing him again in a new installment where he can reprise his role and give us another good time in the movie theater.
