Review of The Polar Express (2004) by Theta S — 11 Dec 2011
A boy is at the crossroads of deciding whether he believes in Santa Claus. To help him decide, a train pulls up to take him to the North Pole on Christmas Eve... Time to take a trip on The Polar Express.
Based on Chris Van Allsburg's classic children's book, Robert Zemeckis brings this magical tale to screen.
Basically, this is an unadulterated Christmas treat which is driven by the performance(s) of leading actor, Tom Hanks, in six roles. It could have been difficult for him to convince in multiple roles, but like Jim Carrey in Zemeckis' production of A Christmas Carol, he carries it off - his portrayal of Santa is totally different to that of the curmudgeonly Conductor or the mysterious Hobo.
The direction by Zemeckis gives off that air of magic which helps you suspend disbelief through using the artwork from the book as the template on which to base the film's look.
Granted, the CGI capture isn't as sophisticated as A Christmas Carol, but there's a five year gap between the two films which is an age in Hollywood SFX terms.
The film also uses music to drive the storyline well - not just in Alan Silvestri's score and specially composed songs, such as the excellent Hot Chocolate and Rockin' On Top Of The World, but in the use of Christmas staple music such as Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town and It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas.
A wonderful slice of Christmas magic for the family.
This review of The Polar Express (2004) was written by Theta S on 11 Dec 2011.
The Polar Express has generally received positive reviews.
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