#15 - The Water Horse

Directed by Jay Russell
2007 Family Fantasy
Rated PG

*** 1/2

Any movie that tells you it was made by the same people as The Chronicles of Narnia on its initial poster in a font nearly as big as the title of the movie itself certainly is setting its standards high. And while The Water Horse never is able to reach the right combination of fun for both children and adults that that film was able to, it certainly comes close. The story of a young Scottish boy (Alex Etel) who finds an egg that hatches what the rest of the world knows as "Nessie" is carried by strong performances from both Etel and Emily Watson, as well as Brian Cox, who is telling the story to a young American couple passing through Scotland (the movie is told in flashbacks). It was also refreshing to see that the General of the soldiers staying with the family (World War II is currently taking place) manages to overcome the cliches of soldiers you see so much. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the rest of his crew. This is a surprisingly frightening film at times, so I can't recommend bringing young (see: younger than 7) children. But if you are up for an interesting take on the legend of the Loch Ness monster, you'll certainly have a good time with The Water Horse.