Bridge to Terabithia

Many young readers were first introduced to the short novel Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson, as an assigned reading in elementary school or junior high. The story revolves around a young boy named Jess and the new neighbors' daughter, Leslie Burke, and their ensuing relationship. Those who have read Paterson's poignant tale of childhood friendship understand why it is a Newbery-Award winning book.

Since so much of the story happens within Jess's mind, I and many other fans of the book were skeptical of the new Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media film released with the same name. Trailers for the film showed fantastical images of an imaginary world, Terabithia, created by Jess and his new friend Leslie. Little was mentioned of the inner turmoil and struggle these two children faced outside in the real world, which is really what the book is all about.

I have to admit I was a somewhat reluctant participant when I went to watch the movie with my family in February of 2007. I didn't want to be disappointed in a film based on a book that I love so much. I am pleased to report that I was pleasantly surprised by how the story played out across the Big Screen. Contrary to what I had seen in the trailers, the filmmakers had stayed true to the crucial story elements from the book and were able to visually capture the hearts and minds of the audience in much the way that Katherine Paterson first captured us with her words.

Fans of the original novel will likely be hard pressed to find fault with the new film, which is visually entertaining, funny, and heartwarming. Don't see the movie expecting it to be exactly like the book-because it won't be-but do go expecting to see a film that is both touching and moving like the book that came before it.

Rated PG by the MPAA, this movie is appropriate for young and old alike: my young children who are not familiar with the novel were entertained during the entire 95 minutes the film runs. As an avid reader and movie-goer, I highly recommend it for people of all ages.