JACK THE GIANT SLAYER
Everyone knows the story of Jack and the Beanstalk and that is exactly what this is. Yet. Another. Reimagining. This time the ancient war between humans and giants is re-ignited when humble and not-as-greedy as the original Jack (Nicholas Hoult) accidentally grows a beanstalk. His motivation for taking to the skies is spurred by Princess Isabelle (Eleanor Tomlinson), a now stereotypical adventure-seeking damsel in distress who is carried into the heavens by the fast-expanding foliage. Also starring a scene-stealing Ewan McGregor as King’s guard Elmont, this entertaining enough fantasy film is perfect for the kids. Decent special effects but a lacklustre use of the 3D dimension lets proceedings down. However, a second climax reels viewers back in just in time for the obvious ending that connects the story to our modern day, posing the question, maybe Jack’s story is real after all? (LL)
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