Rated PG

Directed by Gabor Csupo

Starring AnnaSophia Robb, Josh Hutcherson, Zooey Deschanel, Lauren Clinton, Bailee Madison

Heidi’s Illustrious Review: 2

Word of Warning: This movie was marketed as a fantasy, like “The Lord of the Rings” or “Chronicles of Narnia.” It is not like those movies. Read on for an extended explanation.

Jess Aaron (Josh Hucherson) is the only boy in a family full of girls; he even has to share a room with his youngest sister, May Belle. Their father (Robert Patrick) expects a lot of his only son and is tough on Jess. Running and drawings are the two things 11-year-old Jess loves the most in the world, but his parents show little interest. 

Jess loses his fastest-kid-in-school status when Leslie Burke (AnnaSophia Robb) moves to town. The self-assured and outgoing Leslie happens to live next door to Jess’ family; she is an only child to two doting parents. They encourage her to express herself through unique clothing and a wild imagination. Jess and Leslie form an unconventional friendship and begin building a fort across the river from their houses. They must swing across an aging rope in order to reach their secret play spot, which Leslie dubs “Terabithia.”

The movie does not have the whimsical settings I was expecting. Jess and Leslie do spend time in the woods where they imagine up strange and sometimes scary creatures, but for the most part the movie takes place in the real world; at school where bullies reign supreme and at home where parents struggle to make ends meet.  

The movie’s scene stealer is May Belle (Bailee Madison) – her cute factor is off the charts. Actor Josh Hutcherson is a very good and I believe he has stellar potential. AnnaSophia Robb is adorable, but a bit over the top. You may remember Robb from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (2005).

The movie is based on the book “Bridge to Terabithia” by children book author Katherine Paterson. The book was first published in 1977, and it created a bit of a controversy. Paterson wrote “Bridge to Terabithia” for her son when he lost a friend to a lightening strike. At the time of publication the book’s themes were considered too mature and not suited for a young audience. Most of Paterson’s novels deal with deep themes involving great tragedy and loss - rent “Bridge to Terabithia” with this in mind.