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Calling all Wimpy Kids!
Posted on 23 June 2010 in Library Blog by Louise Ellis- Barrett
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid, set to come to the big screen in the UK on August 27th this year, is a film not to be missed so put the date into your diary now!Last night I was among a lucky few film journalists and young reviewers invited to an advance preview screening of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid. I can happily report that the film's producers, along with the book's author Greg Kinney as executive director, have bought to life Greg, Rowley, their friends and families brilliantly!
Opening with animated verisons of Jeff Kinney's comic strips from the book the film leads with a strong narrative throughout. Greg's voice guides the reader through the expression of his pre-teen angst and emotions with pleny more animated comic strips to come. We laugh with Greg and his friends as well as at them, want to shout at them and cry for them as they progress through their first year in Middle School with all its ups and downs. Knowing the stories inside out any children going to watch this film will not be disappointed, the actors may not quite resemble their stick-like comic strip creations but they have certainly found wimps, geeks, nerds and actors who capture the essence of each character.
The beauty of a film is being able to use artistic licence. This may not always be a popular option but in this instance it works. The producers have done this by bringing to life characters, who in the book have only a few lines, adding a new dimension to the story and providing a whole cast to identify with. Add to this a brilliant soundtrack and a storyline that is faithful and the necessary ingredients for a great film that will no doubt thrill many.
A film for the whole family with a timeless and enduring quality. Make sure 27th August is a date with the Wimpy Kid in your diary, oops, should that be JOURNAL?