'The Adventures of Tintin' Reviewed

Sometimes living in Europe pays off. For instance this year we got one of the biggest releases early. Since the source material of 'The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn' originates from Belgium it makes commercial sense. For those of you unlucky enough to live overseas here's a little review of the motion-capture film by Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson. 

 

'The Adventures of Tintin' is a charming film with a uniquely European feel. As a person who grew up on  Hergé's books and the cartoon series the film is instantly familiar but at the same time refreshing. It has been a long time since we've seen such a carefree and positive action film. 

Several people have asked why they would need mo-cap to film 'Tintin'. The answer lies in the action sequences. There are some things you can't pull off believably in a live-action film. Here the animation doesn't just look good, it makes sense. 

The story, about a lost treasure and a vendetta spanning over several generations, is involving and moves at a brisk pace. Jamie Bell does a fine job as  our Belgian hero but he only really comes alive after he's introduced to Andy Serkis' Captain Haddock. The latter actor shows off his talent for the medium with a funny and touching performance. 

So if you're in for a fun ride 'The Adventures of Tintin' won't let you down.