- Film Review
- Reviewed By Sloan Freer
-
2 out of 5
If it wasn't for the splendid voice talent of comedian Eddie Izzard as the titular sand fairy "It", this family adventure would be a totally lacklustre affair. Adapted from one of The Railway Children author E Nesbit's classic novels, the feature follows the summer exploits of five London siblings during the First World War. Evacuated to the seaside mansion of their unconventional uncle (Kenneth Branagh), they discover an irritable, ancient beach creature (Izzard), known as a Psammead, who possesses amazing wish-granting powers. With its blend of magic, mischief and oddball characters, the tale has an almost Harry Potter-like vibe. However, the flat script, school play-style over-acting and poor special effects ensure any similarities end there. Izzard's cheeky humour and eccentric tones bring the animatronic "It" to life beautifully. Yet, despite his quality, scene-stealing turn, the film never escapes its children's TV drama ambience. Ultimately, it's enjoyable enough to watch but too amateurish to make a lasting impression.
Plot Summary
Period fantasy adventure, based on the novel by E Nesbit, starring Kenneth Branagh and featuring the voice of Eddie Izzard. With their parents involved in the First World War, five siblings are sent to the seaside estate of an eccentric uncle. There, they encounter an ancient sand fairy who possesses amazing wish-granting powers. But there's also mischief behind his magic.
Cast and crew
Cast
- Uncle Albert
- Kenneth Branagh
- Martha
- Zoë Wanamaker
- It
- Eddie Izzard
- Robert
- Freddie Highmore
- Cyril
- Jonathan Bailey
- Anthea
- Jessica Claridge
- Jane
- Poppy Rogers
- Mother
- Tara FitzGerald
- Peasemarsh
- John Sessions
- Nesbit
- Norman Wisdom
- Father
- Alex Jennings
Crew
- Director
- John Stephenson
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