Synopsis:
The trailers and other promotions for this film give the impression that it was going to be another magical movie where the characters travel to an amazing fantasy world and engage in a slew of amazing adventures, jam-packed with gorgeous special effects from start to finish.
Actually, Bridge to Terabitha has very little fantacy at all. Had it been marketed properly, it might not have been such a disappointment. The movie is actually more about the innocent power of a child's imagination.
Jess is an almost teenage boy with an interest in fantacy art, but is constantly forced to “keep his head out of the clouds” by his father. When a new girl moves in next door with a wild imagination and independent confidence, she helps Jess set his imagination free and the pair become fast friends. Together, they create their own fantasy world known as Terabithia, where they use their imaginations to escape from reality and conquer their own personal problems.
The story is a bit slow and a little too heavy on the bullying. There is a quite serious discussion about God and wether or not he damns people to hell. For kids that are paying attention, be ready to answer some questions. There is also a curious relationship with Jess and his teacher, who picks him up for a one-on-one field trip. While nothing inappropriate is implied, this is clearly something that should not be encouraged in this day in age. And, not to ruin the ending, but Leslie does die in the end and makes the movie a bit of a downer.
Overall, this movie is more appropriate for older kids, but is not a fantasy film. More than anything, viewers will take away the importance of a child's imagination.
