songbird2882

This film was very much everything it promised from the trailers, and also very unlike what it seemed. Reminiscent of the Chronicles of Narnia, it seemed to be child's movie in an adult world. Its theme seemed to be similar, that children's magic is often accompanied by grisly realities. A child's fantasy that should not be seen by children, and only adults can handle watching, if that. In that way it is very realistic, even though there are impossibilities and moments of complete magic and abandon. At times shockingly grotesque, and at others haunting and lilting, it is a movie to enjoy and be afraid of. Children absolutely should not see it.

If you liked Dead Poet's Society, The Emperor's Club, Music of the Heart, Mr. Holland's Opus, or if you are in love with the 50's, you will like this movie. If, like me, you have experienced the camaraderie of all-girls school, you will love it. The acting is fairly poor, especially on Julia Robert's part, she is the same character as in countless other Julia movies, and Julia Stiles disappointed me in comparison to her other performances, which are usually quite good. Marcia Gay Harden is wonderful, as well as Kirsten Dunst and the supporting cast. But while this movie is not amazing, it completely captures the essence of all girls school, growing up and becoming a woman, female friendship and love. Embarrassingly enough, it touched me to the point of tears. So if those sorts of stories interest you, this movie is beautiful. And watch it by yourself if you're embarrassed about crying during silly movies. By the way, this movie has nearly nothing to do with art.

I give this movie an 8/10 because for what it is and what it is intended to be, it is excellent. The Cave is not trying to win an Oscar, not are they trying to be artsy, profound or give you an emotional experience that you will want to tell your grandchildren about. It's just a science fiction sort of horror movie, that is good at what it did. The acting was not fabulous, neither was the script, but it thoroughly entertained me, and did keep me on the edge of my seat, and it did make me invested in the fate of the characters (an all too common horror movie flaw). It was interesting, and had enough of a surprise ending to leave you thinking about it (for about five minutes, which is all most movies can hope for). So I say, if you want a science fiction/horror movie, watch this one. It will satisfy.