Die Insel der besonderen Kinder

I haven't read the books, so I can't talk about the differences at length. I read a comment from another reviewer who is furious about the movie, because of all the changes. You have to remember when a beloved book gets made into a film, it's almost impossible it'll meet what you had made of it in your mind.

Also as this is limited (running time mostly), it won't have everything the book had. Even Peter Jacksons adaptations could not have everything Tolkien had written in his book (at least not in the version that was running in the cinemas). Having said all that I hope this prepares you in case you do want to watch this. This is light and fun (with dark themes of course) and aimed to our inner and outer child. It does a good enough job taking us away and entertain us. That's good enough in my book (no pun intended)

Just to clarify one thing: I don't hate Tim Burton at all. In fact, I kinda love his work. He has a very unique and imaginative vision, seems to have a tasteful choice for actors (besides Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter), and can really pour his heart and soul in some of his films like "Edward Scissorhands", "Corpse Bride", and "The Nightmare Before Christmas". But, just like any director, he has his missteps also. Some of his recent work is very lackluster and, at times, flat-out bad (Planet of the... BLAHK!).

But I was still excited for this particular project of his. I haven't read the book, or knew much about it, but when I saw the trailer I got my hopes up. Maybe this will be his big comeback! Asa Butterfield is an actor I like, the imagery is appropriately dream- like and the source material seems to fit his style perfectly. It even has the screenwriter from X-Men: First Class!

So I went to see the film with a few of my friends in a theater of around 15 people and 25-30 recliner seats. I couldn't wait to see another great Tim Burton movie!

And for the first half of the film... I genuinely enjoyed it! Sure, it does take some time for Jacob to reach Peregrine's home, but once he does... I couldn't help but smile like an idiot. The world that Jacob enters is fascinating, the visuals are exceptional, and every one of the peculiar kids are very interesting side- characters. I wanted to learn more about the girl that could lift boulders over her head! There is also this kid that can project his dreams into film... how cool! The first act always left me with questions that I was excited to hear about when the plot kicks in.

And then the plot kicks in...

That is where the movie starts to run out of steam.

I could tell there were a lot of story elements in the book just from watching the movie, because in the second half a lot of it felt crammed in. Whenever I try to follow the story as best as I can, there's always this one subplot that makes precious little sense. It also doesn't help that the villain is weak and his motivations are somewhat vague.

The climax is pretty abrupt and Burton sadly delves into a few clichés that aggravate me. A lot of it felt by-the-numbers at that time, and I was sorely disappointed.

That's not to say that this was a bad film, because it isn't. The acting (especially from Eva Green) is competent, the whole film is imaginative in its story and visuals, and somewhere buried beneath lies a great film with lots of creative ideas and appealing whimsy. But the plot is messy, the main character is bland, the pacing is at times uneven and, in the end, it's just another average YA adaptation that had loads of potential.

VERDICT:

+ Visuals + Well-cast, especially for Eva Green + Imaginative + Sense of wonder in the first act + Solid directing + Interesting side characters

• Villain - The hero is underdeveloped - Plot is messy - Pacing is uneven - Unconvincing love chemistry

SCORE: 5.5/10

Visually captivating and delightfully peculiar fantasy film directed by Tim Burton.

The film follows the extraordinary journey of Jake, portrayed by Asa Butterfield, as he discovers a mysterious orphanage filled with peculiar children and embarks on a thrilling adventure beyond imagination.

Asa Butterfield's portrayal of Jake brings a perfect balance of curiosity and vulnerability to the character. His chemistry with the exceptional Eva Green, who plays Miss Peregrine, adds depth and charm to the film.

Eva Green's performance as the enigmatic and protective Miss Peregrine is a standout. She effortlessly embodies the role of the peculiar headmistress, exuding both warmth and a sense of otherworldly power.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children boasts a remarkable supporting cast, with each peculiar child showcasing their unique abilities and quirks. The special effects and visual design bring these peculiarities to life in a way that is both enchanting and mesmerizing.

Tim Burton's signature visual style shines through in the film's gothic and fantastical aesthetics. The film's dark yet magical atmosphere immerses viewers in the world of peculiarity and wonder.

While some may argue that the film's plot could have been more tightly paced, its captivating visuals and imaginative storytelling more than compensate for any shortcomings.

In conclusion, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is a whimsical and visually stunning fantasy film that enchants with its peculiar charm. With Asa Butterfield and Eva Green's captivating performances, Tim Burton's distinctive direction, and a world filled with extraordinary abilities, it's a film that transports you to a realm of imagination and magic.

If you're a fan of fantastical adventures and love tales of peculiarities and wonder, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is a must-watch. So, step into the extraordinary world of Miss Peregrine's orphanage and prepare for an unforgettable and peculiar journey beyond your wildest dreams.

First of all I haven't read the books but my brother has and he said the movie is not even 30% accurate to the book so I get it why the book readers are hating it. If you are expecting a truthful adaptation of the novel maybe skip this one.

Now in my case as a non reader of the book I had no big expectations for this movie and after watching it I can say it is not a bad movie but it is not very good either. I think it has a good story but it is missing something to make it stand out.

I like Tim Burton and he clearly was the right choice to direct I mean his aesthetic works perfect with the tone of the story this feels like Big Fish meets Edward Scissorhands, that being said I think the story felt a little flat.

Kudos to Eva Green because she is the only, and I mean the only person in the cast worth mentioning, she fits the character of Miss Peregrine perfect, very mysterious and powerful but with a kind heart, contrary to Asa Butterfield who as Jake felt completely forced and not even relatable. The other adults, even Samuel L. Jackson as the villain, were forgettable. And the kids, who I thought were the ones that were going to stand out, only Ella Purnell kind of did

Overall it is pretty average movie with great direction an a clear vision but a cast and a story that were flat. That is why I'm giving it a 6. Not so bad but not so good

The difference from the books allows this to be stand alone without driving you mental because you're left with a cliffhanger for a long time or, potentially, forever... if you enjoyed watch and enjoy it without reading the books?? Read them or get them on audiobook; you will LOVE them!!!

If you've read the trilogy first and THEN watch the film. You're in for a wee change, but it sat well with me rather than be left in insane-land til I could get the next book, or chapter, or be able to see the bigger picture...