by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who doesn’t love an adaptation of a beloved children’s book? Sometimes you get adaptations that miss the point of the story, and others don’t really capture the magic of the work itself. Adaptations can also make a lot of big changes along the way. It is refreshing to get an adaptation that captures the spirit and the story of one such book. If anything, Ray Giarratana’s adaptation of The Tiger Rising is a true-to-form adaptation of the novel.
But does the story work on screen? Giarratana takes the story and tells the narrative in a methodical and straightforward way. Each beat takes its time and spreads this relatively simple plot and plays it out over the course of 100-minute runtime. There might not be enough meaningful narrative from the book, so they add a few elements and characters that feel a tad tact on. But as the story plays out, the themes and ideas play off in a meaningful way. This story is about grief and loss as a young boy who loses his mother is trying to live on with his father at a motel. Giarratana can portray the symbolism of the titular tiger (even if the script beats you over the head with the messaging in the final moments).
How about the direction? This feels like a family film right out of the ‘90s. There is a bright look to the film with cinematography that lacks subtlety. There is a lot of sentimentality that makes it feel quite melodramatic. There are a few moments, including the climax, where there is some poignant and raw emotion that shines through (which is surprisingly coming from its young lead). There are a decent amount of effects in the film, and due to the lower budget, they feel quite artificial. There is also a mythical element that leverages the symbolism and themes. Visually, they are interesting and enticing despite the effects being a bit awkward. From a pacing perspective, there are times in the second act that feel a bit slow which is when the story stalls and gets a bit repetitive.
But does the cast bring the magic to the film? Young Christian Convery is subtle and strong in his portrayal of our young protagonist. There is a lot asked of him in the climax, and he delivers some impressive emotion for a young actor. Madalen Mills, who plays the rambunctious and fiery pal to Convery, is a bit off. She is so exaggerated and over the top with her acting choices that it took me out of the film. There are a few veteran actors that fill out the cast. Queen Latifah does a fine job as a dated trope where she plays the wise woman who directs the children. But the real firecracker is Dennis Quaid, who is infinitely sleazy and hilarious as the boisterous and cantankerous antagonist.
Is this a good new go-to family film to experience? The Tiger Rising is sweet and genuine, while still delivering on its themes. This is not an all time great or a film that will blow you out of the water, but you cannot go wrong with this one. Despite some harsher emotional moments, the whole family can find something to enjoy.
Grade: C+
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