Review: THE BFG Brings Back That Classic Spielberg Movie Magic
With The BFG, director Steven Spielberg has once again delivered a movie full of magic, humor, and wonder. It's been a long time since we've seen a movie from Spielberg that has fantasy elements in it, and I was really curious to see if he would be able to deliver a film full of that classic Spielberg movie magic that a lot of us grew up on, and I thought he did just that.
The BFG might not be as amazing as some of his earlier films like E.T., Jaws, Raiders of the Ark and others, but it's a wonderfully charming and magical film that absolutely entertained me! After the film's premiere at Cannes it was met with a slew of bad and mediocre reviews. But that's just a bunch of movie snobs being way too critical of a fantastical adventure film that is an absolute joy to watch.
The film may have this sweeping epic magical feel to it, but in reality, this is a small movie with a simple story that involves two lovable characters. The story focuses on the relationship of a young orphan girl named Sophie played by Ruby Barnhill, who was stunning in the lead role, and a giant who goes by the name of BFG played by Mark Rylance, who gave an Oscar-worthy performance. This isn't a mean giant, it's not a giant who eats children. No, this is a giant who has a soft heart and one who can see all the good in the world. It has a very E.T. kind of vibe to it as it focus on a young child who befriends a strange creature.
These two characters perfectly propel the story forward, and their relationship is captivating. Watching these two characters interacting with each other, learning about each other, and spending time together is one of the sweetest and most enjoyable things I've seen in a long time from Spielberg. The BFG especially, I just had a smile plastered on my face through most of the movie because he was so fun and whimsical.
A lot of people I've talked to have been worried about the visual and CGI effects in the film, but I thought Weta did an incredible job helping bring this story and characters to life, especially with The BFG. His character design was brilliant, and you see the soul of the actor behind the eyes. That was Mark Rylance and his performance explodes through the character. For me it didn't feel like I was watching a CGI character, I was watching the actor play that character. Every frame of this film is a beautiful piece of art that has to be seen on the big screen.
As you may already know, the film is based on the children's book written by Roald Dahl, and if you're a fan you'll be happy to know that the film completely honors its spirit. I don't think anyone could have asked for a better adaptation. I honestly don't see how anyone who enjoyed the book wouldn't enjoy this movie. Even if you're not familiar with the book, I think there's a good chance you'll be entertained by it.
There's one scene in the film that had me laughing hysterically, and it involves Sophie, The BFG, the Queen of England, and farting. If you've read the book, then you know what I'm talking about, but this had the audience rolling with laughter.
If you're looking for an entertaining and fun film to take the whole family to, The BFG should be at the top of your list. It's got a little bit of everything that we love about the movies — aqdventure, action, drama, and comedy. It's the must see family movie of the summer!