- Film Review
- Reviewed By Stella Papamichael
-
3 out of 5
This adaptation of the first book in Anthony Horowitz's bestselling Alex Rider series is a British action adventure with Hollywood-style bombast. Alex Pettyfer plays teenager Alex Rider who reluctantly turns superspy to avenge the murder of his uncle (Ewan McGregor). Pettyfer makes a suitably good-looking hero, although occasionally clamping his jaw doesn't really convey the bitter tragedy behind Rider's mission. Damian Lewis plays the assassin responsible for his woes, but, sadly, writer Anthony Horowitz (adapting his own novel) pushes him aside in favour of campy arch-villain Mickey Rourke, who has an obligatory Bond-style shark tank - except this one boasts a giant jellyfish. The film has its flaws, but thankfully director Geoffrey Sax ensures it's never dull. There are lots of audacious stunts featuring quirky gadgets, such as acne cream that eats through steel, and there are extra laughs courtesy of Bill Nighy as a deadpan MI6 official. It all adds up to bright and breezy family viewing.
Plot Summary
Action adventure based on the first of the bestselling Alex Rider series of books, starring Alex Pettyfer. After his uncle is killed, teenager Alex discovers that he was a spy. He is recruited into the exciting and dangerous world of espionage, and sent to finish the mission that his uncle was on when he died.
Cast and crew
Cast
- Alex Rider
- Alex Pettyfer
- Ian Rider
- Ewan McGregor
- Darrius Sayle
- Mickey Rourke
- Alan Blunt
- Bill Nighy
- Mrs Jones
- Sophie Okonedo
- Jack Starbright
- Alicia Silverstone
- Nadia Vole
- Missi Pyle
- Sabina Pleasure
- Sarah Bolger
- Yassen Gregorovich
- Damian Lewis
- John Crawford
- Jimmy Carr
- Prime Minister
- Robbie Coltrane
- Mr Smithers
- Stephen Fry
- Mr Grin
- Andy Serkis
Crew
- Director
- Geoffrey Sax
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