From producer/director Bryan Singer (“The Usual Suspects”) comes a twist to a familiar story in which Jack (Nicholas Hoult, “Warm Bodies”) bridges the gap between the human race and one of giants. Once considered a myth, the very real threat becomes apparent when a Princess Isabelle (Eleanor Tomlinson, “Alice in Wonderland”) is taken hostage by the gargantuan brutes. Sent by King Brahmwell (Ian McShane), Jack embarks on a quest up the bean stalk with a group of soldiers (including Ewan McGregor, Ewen Bremner, Eddie Marsan, and Stanley Tucci). The film also has an appearance by Warwick Davis.
With the power hungry Roderick (Tucci) things get even more challenging for Jack, leading to many struggles and battles until the sequel suggesting climax. Overall “Jack the Giant Slayer” is a PG-13 rated family film that isn’t too complex of a film. It has nasty moments with the disgusting giants and rarely shows an actual slaying on camera, and of course it has its comedic relief moments as well. It is a decent film for what it is, but nothing more than that – not worth hard earned cash unless this is exactly what is desired.
Last weekend the film topped disappointing box office numbers with an estimated $28 million dollars, it’d be surprising if it keeps the number one spot very much longer. Being a fun, mindless, family flick maybe that is exactly what earns its profit – but the only real flaw is that it is a bit too long (almost 2 hours). In the loyal exercisers of bad taste mindset, if there’s a sequel I’ll be there. Enough said.
“Jack the Giant Slayer” is now playing in theaters everywhere in 3D, IMAX 3D, and regular 2D.
