Movie Review: THE LOVELY BONES (2009)

THE LOVELY BONES
Directed by: Peter Jackson
Written by: Fran Walsh, Pilippa Boyens, and Peter Jackson
Adapted from a novel by Alice Sebold

I was somewhat disappointed by this film. I love Peter Jackson as a genre director in more of the horror and fantasy/sci-fi world. His drama pieces just don't resonate with me. There's no doubt that he's one of the best directors out there and that he's always capable of producing quality work. I don't particularly like this one. As I've said before, the horror genre needs quality filmmakers pushing the genre. Peter Jackson has proven himself there and I'd like to see him push the genre further ahead into the artistry of what filmmaking truly is.

I admire the vision of THE LOVELY BONES. It's clear that Alice Sebold had a vision and Peter Jackson captured it on screen. The story is fairly interesting, but the ending is extremely deflating. I honestly expected more.

Of course the special effects are amazing. However, I felt they lacked meaning on a practical level. That may underscore the premise for them in the context of the film, but I felt their significance was somewhat dubious. With that said, they are unique and at times aw-inspiring.

The acting is truly topflight. Plenty of great performances. I can honestly say that there's not one that you can look at and say that it could have been better. I really think this is a testament to the direction of Peter Jackson.

Overall, I feel the film works better as a love story than it does at a shot of revenge. It's very dramatic and emotional, but doesn't captivate me in the way I would have liked.

Rating = 6.2/10.0 - 1/2