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Artemis Fowl was not what I expected.
I should first state that I have only read a few chapters of the book but I thought it entertaining for young adults and a great use of imagination, so I anticipated that watching it on the screen would be enjoyable. I was wrong, in fact, I fell asleep 5 times while watching it.
Disney's latest release Artemis Fowl features a 12-year-old genius, Ferdia Shaw as a descendant of a long line of criminal masterminds. He soon finds himself in an epic battle against a race of powerful underground fairies, goblins, and dwarves who may be behind his father's (Colin Farrell) disappearance. This film is an adaption Eion Colfer’s fantasy series under the same name. The Artemis Fowl graphic novels sold more than nine million copies in the United States. Fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of the Artemis Fowl feature film.
Unfortunately the mark is missed with the Artemis Fowl film. The plot is rushed so you don't have an opportunity to really understand what is happening and there is very little character development. This film looses its appeal with the notes changes.
What Genre is Artemis Fowl?
Depending on who you ask, you might get different responses. Is it sci-fi fantasy and basic fantasy? Sci-fi fantasy is generally based in space with aliens and/or has a scientific base while basic fantasy often includes magical elements that are not generally science related. I guess the confusion for how to classify the film involves Artemis Fowl use of swords and sorcery and the presence of fairies.
What Ages Should Watch Artemis Fowl?
This Disney film is rated PG and is appropriate for all ages. The characters are not very scary and there is no adult language. Avery (Donaldson Brothers), age 8 stated “after reading the book and watching the movie, I enjoyed how the characters were brought to life. It almost matched my mental image during my reading of the book. I liked the action scenes and the fact that it closely follows the story in the book”. His comment seems to be in line with other children under the age of 10. He has requested to watch the film again and will continue to read the other series. If your child likes fantasy films then it can't hurt to allow them the 90+ minutes to check it out. Consider it a parent break.
What I Did Like About Artemis Fowl
The computer generated imagery is astonishing. Fowl Manor and the underground city are spectacular. The role of Butler (Nonso Anozie) was a welcomed twist also with that of his younger sister. Book readers were surprised to see that Commander Root (Judi Dench) was a female. I have to wonder if it was Disney's attempt to showcase more female and non-white characters.
The film is definitely a conversation starter for the family. It touches on the conflict that often exist between good and evil. I asked my family if they thought it was worthy to be a series and was met with a resounding NO. We did however enjoy The Artemis Fowl digital soundtrack that is available for download. The score is composed and produced by Patrick Doyle.
Are you an Artemis Fowl fan? Tell me what you thought about the Disney+ film.
