Film Review: Inkheart (2008)
Inkheart is a family adventure fantasy film that combines the efforts of German, British, and American production teams. Released over ten years ago, it didn’t make a significant impact initially. The movie is based on Cornelia Funke’s children’s book of the same name and boasts a notable cast. Brendan Fraser, Eliza Bennett, and Paul Bettany take the lead roles, with Helen Mirren, Jim Broadbent, and Andy Serkis adding support. Also, Jennifer Connelly appears briefly in a cameo.
The movie revolves around “silvertongues,” individuals who possess the unique ability to bring the content of books to life just by reading them aloud. However, this power comes with its own set of risks and consequences.
The story begins with a tranquil scene of a father reading to his young child while his wife listens. Something odd occurs as he reads. Fast forward twelve years, Mortimer “Mo” Folchart (portrayed by Fraser) is traveling around Europe in a Volkswagen van with his daughter, Meggie (played by Bennett), in search of a rare book named Inkheart. Mortimer is a book restorer, often called a book doctor, and he has a peculiar connection with this book.
While Mortimer finds the book in a shop, Meggie encounters Dustfinger (Bettany), a mysterious man with a pet marten, outside. These characters seem intertwined in ways Meggie does not yet understand. Dustfinger urges Mortimer to read him back into the book, but Mortimer flees with Meggie, alarmed at the mention of Capricorn, a name that clearly frightens him.
Taking refuge with an eccentric aunt, Elinor (Mirren), Mortimer reveals the truth to Meggie: her missing mother, his silvertongued abilities, and the significance of Inkheart. But they’re not safe for long, as Capricorn’s henchmen capture them and take them to Capricorn’s fortress. There, Capricorn (Serkis) harbors plans for Mortimer, which are best discovered by watching the film.
The plot thickens as book characters brought to life struggle with their existence and the quest to either stay in the real world or return to the pages from which they came. Questions arise: Can Meggie’s mother be rescued from the book? Will the original Inkheart author (Broadbent) craft a new ending? Will these characters find their way back into their story?
Inkheart has an intriguing premise, and the cast certainly delivers strong performances. Helen Mirren stands out as the feisty Aunt Elinor, Fraser’s Mortimer channels his adventurous Mummy character, and Bettany presents Dustfinger as an enigmatic anti-hero. Andy Serkis brings a sinister delight to Capricorn, reminiscent of his earlier roles.
Despite its high production value and captivating scenery, the film struggles with pacing. Some scenes are either too rushed or drag on, particularly the ending. This may be attributed to the script or direction rather than the original award-winning source material. However, it does create interest in reading the book.
Ultimately, Inkheart is an entertaining film that falls somewhere in the middle—not exceptional, but not terrible either.
Content Note: Rated PG for fantasy adventure action, some scary moments, and brief language.
Where to Watch: Available on DVD.
Have you seen Inkheart? What are your thoughts on this fantasy film?
