Goosebumps: Family Movie Review



"I was so angry at the real world, that I created these monsters." ~ Goosebumps

Just back from viewing Goosebumps - this weekend's top anticipated movie release for families. Prior to seeing the film, the only knowledge I had of the Goosebumps franchise was that it is a very popular children's horror series written by R. L. Stine. Ironically, when my son was in second grade, the book covers alone scared him so we never experienced their magic.  However, now 11 years old, he was won over by the trailers and his appreciation for the talents of Jack Black who portrays Stine and agreed to go see the film with me. 

Goosebumps movie
 Black, Minnette, Rush, and Lee star in this horror comedy

Dylan Minnette was excellent as Zach, a high school student who moves from NYC to Madison, Delaware with his mom, played by Amy Ryan.  They move next door to the mysterious and reclusive neighbor who turns out to be none other than the writer, R. L. Stine, and his daughter Hannah (Odeya Rush).  When Zach thinks he witnesses suspicious activity occurring in the Stine home that threatens Hannah's safety, he and classmate, Champ (Ryan Lee), rush to her aid.  Unfortunately, they stumble upon Stine's collection of locked Goosebumps books.  They quickly learn that there is a reason the books are locked!  

If you've ever wondered what it would be like if monsters escaped their books and became real, you are about to find out.  The small, quiet town becomes overtaken by Stine's fictitious monsters and Zach, Hannah, Champ, and Stine must write their way out of the mess.  From the Abominable Snowman to a giant praying mantis, from a werewolf to zombies - the film is filled with intense monsters that will have you holding on to the arms of your chair. It will also, ironically, have you laughing aloud as the cast delivers one humorous line after another. 


 Watch Official Trailer

  "Every story ever told can be broken down into three distinct parts: the beginning, the middle, and a twist."  ~ Goosebumps

And the twist in this one is.......nah, you're going to have to see for yourself.  Although not brilliant filmmaking by any means, Goosebumps is a fun family flick perfect for Halloween!  My son and I both thoroughly enjoyed it.  The film is rated PG for scary and intense creature action and images and for some rude humor. I would strongly caution parents not to bring children under the age of eight or nine. As they say in the film, these are not bedtime stories! 


Read more of my Family Movie Reviews

Comments

  1. Nikki,
    Great post and review! Growing up I loved reading these books, I think I was in 4th grade in the first one came out. I wont tell you all how old I am now but its up there... haha I love that my daughter likes to watch them and will start reading my old books soon.

    She is 7 and I was wondering if she would be old enough for it? I am not sure how scary it was can you advise? I know she doesn't love the doll so... I would like to see how they made this movie with all the stories that are out there, but I am so excited they finally made a movie!!!

    Chris

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    Replies
    1. Hey Chris, thanks for reading. Each child is so different. I would say that if she's been reading the books without an issue, then it is probably safe. HOWEVER, the film version of a monster can be much more intimidating than in print. My son (the one who was scared of the book covers at 8 years old) had already seen Narnia at that point without incident - so go figure. You never really know what is going to freak a kid out or not. The doll is a HUGE part of the film - so based on your comment that she doesn't like it, I would take that into consideration.

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    2. Nikki,
      Thank you for the helpful info! I prob will wait for it to come out and make it a movie night home. I look forward to your next review!

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  2. Man, my kids loved those books, they ate them up. Sometimes, though it kept them up, and us as well.

    It sounds like a great movie, though.

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    Replies
    1. I am really sorry my kids skipped over this series, and since I taught Kindergarten, I never even experienced it as a teacher. I cannot comment on how the film is in relation to the books, but it was really fun and perfect for a pre-Halloween movie!

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