Based on the 2003 novel The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, the film follows two young heroes (Saoirse and Harry) who attempt to solve an ancient mystery in time to prevent their underground city from being swallowed by darkness. City of Ember is visually arresting, and boasts a superb cast (Bill Murray and Martin Landau, how could you fail?), but is sadly lacking in both action and adventure. This is a movie which barely made a wave at the box office, before seemingly sinking without a trace. While the film isn't entirely bad, for instance its nice that the kids weren't smart-alecky stereotypes. They dont have to fight some war or battle to save the day., the kids use their own ingenuity to save the day. And, as was stated before, visually the film is most certainty a sight to behold, all the sets and effects are just spectacular. But unfortunately the film is just too dark for children and not dark or enticing enough for anybody over twelve. This is a movie with a very specific target audience, and odds are youre not part of it.
Jesse Gumbarge is editor and chief blogger at JarvisCity.com - He loves old-school horror films and starting pointless debates. You can reach out at: JesseGumbarge@JarvisCity.com
