Jumanji is the visual equivalent of a wild ride in a very surreal jungle theme park. Recently returned from a Disney World vacation, I kept expecting the seats in the theatre to start shaking in concert with the action onscreen. Based on the book of the same title by renowned children’s author, Chris Van Allsburg, the movie follows the adventures of four players of the board game, Jumanji, a magical, slightly malevolent test of grit and tenacity. The very first roll of the dice unleashes the game’s power to conjure up animals, people, and forces of nature to challenge the players. And, like all good, scary rides, once you embark, you’re on for the duration – no getting off mid-spin. The trick is to outlast the apparitions, for when the first player reaches home and shouts out, “Jumanji!”, the game is over and the world is immediately restored to its original order. In the meantime, the players and audience alike best hold on to their pith helmets…. Buried in the dead of night a century earlier by two boys who survived the game, Jumanji is unearthed in 1969 by troubled young Alan Parrish (Hann-Byrd). When he coerces his reluctant friend Sarah to play, they begin a game that will span 26 years, embrace two modern-day players, and give them all a few rough-and-tumble lessons about friendship and courage and cooperation. The cast is fine – Williams’ manic man/child persona is perfect for the part of the adult Alan, and Hyde delivers in a deliciously clever dual role, but it is Hunt (Beethoven) and Dunst (Interview With the Vampire) who particularly shine. Their soft, sure strength transcends the tumult and anchors the illusory expedition. Juxtaposing computer animation, animatronics and magnificent set design to create breathtaking special effects, Johnston (Honey, I Shrunk the Kids) skillfully combines those pyrotechnics with a sweet, silly, but nonetheless sincere, cautionary tale. With a running time of 104 minutes, the excitement should outlast the wait in line, making this the perfect amusement for kids this holiday season. But don’t just park your kids there, you’ll have fun going along for the ride.
This article appears in June 20 • 2008.