Family films are becoming more prevalent in today's pop culture. They've always been around. Movies such as Mary Poppins and Wizard of Oz captured imaginations long before the current generation. Cutting-edge technologies make it easier to create fantastic adventurous fun for the whole family, and parents look for quality entertainment. Nim's Island delivers.
We Should All Be So Lucky
For as long as eleven-year-old Nim Rusoe (Abigail Breslin) can remember, she's lived on an island with her esteemed scientist father. Although her island hosts a wide array of wildlife, she and her dad are the only humans in residence. Any child would be envious of this way of life; beaches and forests limited only by the imagination. Her companions include a lizard, pelican and seal; they've become her trusted friends.
Nim and her father aren't completely cut off from the outside world. Jack Rusoe (Gerard Butler) spares no expense to keep their haven private. Satellite phones and Internet access keep them connected and each month a ship delivers supplies, everything from essential food and toiletries to books featuring Nim's favorite adventurer - Alex Rover.
It's true that her father is a bit of a geeky sort, more interested in research than Nim's wide array of companions, but there is no doubt he loves his daughter. Jack prepares to take a short trip to recover a potential new species of protozoa. However, Nim doesn't want to leave her pregnant sea turtle, the babies are due at any moment. He reluctantly agrees to let her stay behind.
While the father is away, he receives a message from the author of Nim's favorite books. Alexandra Rover (Jodie Foster). She hopes to mine Rusoe's knowledge for research purposes. The writer and young girl strike up a conversation via email, Alex doesn't realize Nim is a little girl and Nim is unaware Alex is really an agoraphobic woman.
A ferocious storm hits and Jack is lost at sea, leaving the young girl on her own longer than planned. Nim reaches out to her hero for help; her world became a scary place, something she never imagined. Once Alexandra realizes the person she's been conversing with is eleven, she must conquer her fears to ensure the young girl is safe. Her journey is fraught with every fear she could imagine.
Charmed, I'm Sure
Nim's Island is a charming tale about fear (both rational and irrational), fighting for what you believe in and the importance of family. The themes are positive and the action is filmed with just enough intensity to capture the attention but not scare.
Abigail Breslin is a young actress in the caliber of Dakota Fanning. Gerard Butler's acting range is undeniable and this role proves he's capable of portraying any character. Jodie Foster has entertained us for many years, and though she was a bit too old for this role, it doesn't detract from the overall picture.
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