Review of Bedtime Stories (2008) by John B — 10 Sep 2010

"Bedtime Stories" is a bit of a mixed bag. At some points, the writing is fairly clever in how Bronson's bedtime tales come true, and the film does respectably restrict itself on how things would actually happen, rather than just making them fantasy surprises like I was really expecting. It also does have some oddly funny moments, such as the kids' bug-eyed guinea pig, and some of Sandler's performance does make you smile. At the other end, the movie also has some terribly corny moments and very 'rehearsed' acting. The theme of the film also asked for a bit of a deeper and more symbolic conclusion, and instead leaves you feeling as though the writers skimped out on that part and just decided on a highly cheesy and simplistic interpretation. I quote - "It's your story, son." And as for Russel Brand's character . . . . . . well, let's just not even go there.

My overall impression: not impressive. However, to its credit, it is imaginative and family-friendly, which is something that modern cinema could still use a lot more of.