The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising Movie Review

The Seeker: The Dark Is Rising
Rating: PG
Starring: Alexander Ludwig, Christopher Eccleston, Ian Mc Shane
Director: David L Cunningham
Distributor: Twentieth Century Fox
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
Violence: Minor
Profanity: None
Sex/Nudity: None
Recommended for: Dads & Kids
Age Groups: 11 +
Release Date: October 5, 2007
Run time: 94 Minutes

This movie is for dads and kids who love fantasy. It is based on Susan Cooper’s novel, The Dark is Rising. The plot revolves around the magical exploits of fourteen-year-old Will Stanton (Played by Alexander Ludwig). On his fourteenth birthday, Will discovers that he is part of a group of supernatural warriors called “The Old Ones.” These ancient warriors have dedicated their lives to protecting the world from the forces of The Dark. Will is the last of the Old Ones and is expected to play a pivotal role in defeating The Dark. Will faces off against the Dark Rider (played by Christopher Eccleston) and embarks on a quest for magical items called signs which he hopes will help him defeat the Dark Rider.

Kids who are fantasy enthusiasts and who enjoyed watching movies like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and Eragon will be enthralled by this quirky new take on all things magical. This is a story of time travel and magic woven into the age-old theme of the forces of good vs. evil. Dads will enjoy the apt portrayal of Will Stanton by Alexander Ludwig, who enacts a very believable hero. The boy struggles to cope with his superpower magical abilities. Dads will especially appreciate Christopher Eccleston’s portrayal of the Dark Rider, as one of the most memorable fantasy villains of all time.

The Seeker highlights certain morals that dads can help their kids take home. Humility is a key focus in the character of the protagonist. Will Stanton is a boy who at the beginning is uncertain of himself but matures and grows more resolved as the story unfolds. Will shows love and dedication to his family even though at times they do not return his feelings. The central theme of the movie is that of the struggle between the forces of the good and evil. The Dark constantly leaves a wake of destruction in its path, tempting weak people to do its bidding. The Old Ones constantly try to prevent the havoc that Dark Rider causes.

The movie is a good blend of story telling and special effects. Die-hard fans of the novel may find that there are differences in the movie version as compared to the original book. However the movie will be well appreciated by dads and kids alike for its entertainment value and tantalizing story line.