This week, the three big releases — Gangster Squad, Zero Dark Thirty, and A Haunted House — are all rated R, but there’s a kiddie flick called Horrid Henry: The Movie in limited release. Plus, Tim Burton’s stop-motion spook-tacular Frankenweenie is out on DVD. Read on to find out what’s appropriate for the whole family.
What’s it about? A sort of Diary of a Wimpy Kid with a British accent, Horrid Henry is the tale of a mischievous rascal whose failure to submit his homework leads to a series of wacky events.
Who’s it for? It’s rated PG “for some rude humor.” The kiddies may enjoy this colorful 3D romp, but parents will likely spend much of their time wondering what Anjelica Huston and Richard E. Grant are doing here.
Is it any good? Horrid Henry got pretty terrible notices in its native England, with more than a few critics saying that it lives up to its title.
What’s it about? Frankenweenie is the story of Victor, a science-obsessed middle schooler who prefers the company of his faithful dog Sparky to his peers. But when Sparky is fatally wounded, Victor undertakes an experiment to bring him back to life, and unwittingly unleashes monster mayhem on his otherwise placid hometown.
Who’s it for? It’s rated PG “for thematic elements, scary images and action.” It’s a tad dark for little kids – it features creepy creatures and a dead dog — but it’s probably safe for children eight and up.
Is it any good? It’s sweet, it’s funny, it’s visually beautiful, and it’s Certified Fresh. The stop-motion animation is vividly realized and many of the visual gags — particularly those of the irrepressible Sparky — are sure to delight animal lovers.
