Review of Jack the Giant Slayer (2013) by Mab_987 — 07 Mar 2013

I admit I didn't expect much going into this, given the mixed reception. But I actually left very entertained. The story is loosely based on the old tale of Jack and the Beanstalk and while it for the most part stays true to it, it doesn't feel like some lazy copy from fairy tale book to movie script.

But at the same time it didn't feel like a pathetic try-hard attempt to make a fairy tale "edgy" a la Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters. It hits a nice middle ground that's able to work well on its own merits.

In other words the story isn't a rehashing or butchering but rather a reimagining. The characters, while not particularly unique or original, do work in the roles they're given. Even if the whole lower-class-guy-meets-upper-class-girl thing is kinda done-to-death, especially when the latter is royalty, and you know very well how the story's gonna end in that department.

Also I like the idea of there being practically a whole other world within the beanstalk, rather than just an hour of climbing, which I feared the movie would be at first. It makes for a lot of great visuals and action scenes.

Speaking of which, the fight scenes are very well-written/performed. Some notable ones (no spoilers) are the one with the giant chef and the one between Jack and Roderick in the stream. The giants, aka the "villains", have a nice design to them.

And while I wouldn't say the CGI was amazing for them (especially in the close-ups) it worked well enough. Though they were clearly the most "cartoony" part of the film. One other thing I appreciate is how just when you think there's a cheap linear storybook ending about 3/4 in, it (somewhat realistically) continues in a way that would otherwise leave a massive plothole.

And I think it pays off quite nicely, with the final battle making for a great scene that really hooks you in, ending on a creative and kinda funny note, depending on your sense of humor. Overall Jack the Giant Slayer exceeded my expectations and was very entertaining, albeit with a fairly predictable storyline and main character arch.

It's not a tear-jerker or a laugh riot but more of just a fun adventure. I'd give it a 77/100. It probably won't end up my favorite movie of 2013 but it is for now.