The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Welcome to another episode of The "D" List.

Today's review is The Sorcerer's Apprentice. Directed by John Turtletaub. Written by Matt Lopez, Doug Miro and Carlo Bernard. Screen Story by Lawrence Konner, Mark Rosenthal and Matt Lopez.

100th review countdown.......#76

MPAA Rating : PG for fantasy action violence, some mild rude humor and brief language.

Runtime : 105 Minutes

Cast

Nicolas Cage - Balthazar

Jay Baruchel - Dave

Alfred Molina - Horvath

Teresa Palmer - Becky

Toby Kebbell - Drake Stone

Monica Bellucci - Veronica
   
Alice Krige - Morgana

Jake Cherry - Young Dave

James A. Stephens - Merlin


Fantasy and magic have been areas of cinema that have always put a smile on my face. However, there have been countless disappointments in one form or another as to why these films fail to meet the expectations that are set by themselves. This film solved one of the genre's biggest flaws and did it in a very entertaining way.

Balthazar Blake is a master sorcerer in modern day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch nemesis, Maxim Horvath. Balthazar can't do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler, a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé. The sorcerer gives his unwilling accomplice a crash course in the art and science of magic, and together, these unlikely partners work to stop the forces of darkness.

Clearly this story has nothing original to offer but as mentioned earlier, it offers a new twist to the wizards and warriors genre.

Ready.........Wait for it........They actually use magic!!!!!!!!! Can you believe it? A film filled with wizards and magic actually do what they are supposed to do. Groundbreaking stuff.

OK. All kidding aside, the powers that be got it right on that front. There is a ton of magic wielding and fighting which was a fresh perspective since most films that deal with magic and fantasy seem to skimp out on the actual magic and fantasy. To add to the spectacle were the first rate special effects. They were top notch and seamless to the live action set pieces. For a geek like me it was fun to see these magical masters wield their powers with such grace and ferocity.

Now there is a trade off to all of the spectacular action. You know where this is going right? It's the story. While the plot is as basic as you can get they let the action and fun hide the obvious plot holes and inexplicable passage of time. It's a problem but for a film like this that's meant to dull your brain and force you to enjoy the "big pretty lights" it was an acceptable compromise.

The actors performances were solid highlighted by Alfred Molina. I would have preferred a more ruthless Horvath, perhaps we may see that in the sequel since this film leaves it open to a possible franchise.

On the 5 star scale. The Sorcerer's Apprentice gets 3.5 stars with a split "Go See It/Give It a Shot" recommendation.

This was a pretty fun and entertaining film that satisfied my inner wizard.

Up next is Inception. By far, hands down the FILM OF THE SUMMER AND OF THE YEAR!!!!!!!!!
It's going to be fun seeing what comes out to challenge this one.


Until Next Episode....."I'll Save You A Seat!"

"D"