
Movie Version Of Iconic Aussie Kids Book ‘Magic Beach’ Inspires Children’s Imagination

Stimulating the imaginations of young children in their tender years is of the utmost importance and that’s what author Alison Lester’s illustrated children’s book Magic Beach has endeavoured to achieve since its publication.
Written 35 years ago the book has sold over 500,000 copies in Australia and New Zealand and still continues to be a bestseller.
The big screen Australian adaption directed by Robert Connolly (Paper, Planes Dry) has finally arrived in cinemas and should prove to be a popular choice for parents who anticipate taking their young children to watch a family friendly movie during these school holidays.
A mix of live action and bright colourful animation, the simplistic story delves on nine children and a dog on the beach and the seaside adventures they experience through their imaginations.
There are several independent stories in the movie instigated by children and adults of various authenticities as they read passages from the book, which then ignite their imaginations and transport audiences to the picturesque seaside.
Cute and imaginative, some of the cleverly interweaved animated sequences tell of a girl who loves the ocean, sea smugglers who attempt to steal silver and the adventures a child experiences when he falls into the sea.
Mesmerising and beautiful images of the undersea terrain and creatures including benevolent mermaids, highlight the sheer artistry and ingenuity of the filmmakers whose passion for the production is evident in each frame of the movie.
This movie is a visual extension of the children’s book, transferring the stories on every page of the book to the big screen, maximising the wonder and joy children will experience while being inspired to connect with their imagination and creativeness.
Magic Beach is placid viewing suitable for all children under the age of 6, but adults who enjoy animated features or who are studying animation may also find this movie highly entertaining and visually satisfying.
Whereas many animated films especially produced for children may be hard for them to follow leading to restlessness, Magic Beach is simplistic with minimal dialogue and stunning visuals that should entrance and inspire them to draw and animate their own imaginative stories.
This beloved classic is delightful viewing and one of the best Australian films ever produced for children.
Magic Beach
***1/2
In Cinemas January 16