 Presented by Walt Disney Pictures and Walden Media, Bridge To Terabithia soars to exhilarating new heights on Blu-ray Disc. Based on the Newbery Medal-winning book, this heartwarming classic about the power of friendship and magic of imagination is more inspiring than ever in this breathtaking format. Tired of being bullied at school and misunderstood at home, new friends Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke escape into the woods, where Leslie opens Jess's mind to the amazing kingdom of Terabithia. It's a secret land where they reign supreme among the giants, ogres and other fantastical creatures they create. Now, seeing - and hearing - is believing, as Blu-ray virtually "transforms" this imaginary realm into mind-blowing reality with astoundingly rich picture clarity and resounding, spectacularly enhanced audio. Live the adventure, cross the "Bridge" as if for the very first time, and allow yourself to be transported with Disney Blu-ray - the Magic of High Definition. Storyline: Jesse Aarons trained all summer to become the fastest runner in school, so he's very upset when newcomer Leslie Burke outruns him and everyone else. Despite this and other differences, including that she's rich, he's poor, and she's a city girl, he's a country boy, the two become fast friends. Together, they create Terabithia, a land of monsters, trolls, ogres, and giants and rule as king and queen. This friendship helps Jess cope with the tragedy that makes him realize what Leslie taught him. Written by Popdivaprincess3000 Reviewer's Note: Reviewed by Greg Maltz on July 8, 2007 -- Another visual stunner from Disney, Bridge to Terabithia tells a moving story of the most difficult period in a boy's childhood. Tethered to problems in his family and at school, Jess Aarons (Josh Hutcherson) suddenly finds a friend, Leslie Burke (in a standout performance by AnnaSophia Robb), who cuts the tethers. Together, the friends are free to transcend their lives in a small, rural town and explore the reaches of their imagination. But something goes horribly wrong, and Jess must face the demons in his real life before he can realize his talents and self-worth embodied in his fantasy world. The fantasy world of Terabithia embodies the imagination of the children in the film. Like a supporting actor, this world does not play a leading role, but the special effects add intrigue and excitement and look stunning in 1080p. In an era when kids' films focus on hip hop, nontraditional families, city life and teenage crushes dripping with sexual energy, Disney has given us a wholesome exploration of a boy's world. His family, friends, even the furthest reaches of his dreams--all are shown with care and depth. Jess doesn't even have to say much to convey all of the emotions and thoughts that fill his head. That is how Bridge to Terabithia works well, remaining accessible to all viewers without requiring too much of its young actors. And speaking of Miss Robb, her performance in this film was spellbinding. It's difficult to fully discuss her role or other aspects of the plot without spoilers, but Robb stole the show here. Her presence was haunting and charming. It should be said that this film grapples with issues of death and may not be appropriate for young children. But ultimately the message of this film is the importance of friends and family, art, music and of course imagination. As such, Disney has reemerged as an important studio. Like its movies of yesteryear that taught us life lessons, Old Yeller for example, Bridge to Terabithia shows what makes the people and stories of middle America so special. [CSW] -3.6- Obviously, a movie dealing with tough life issues like Bridge to Terabithia isn't for your 5 year old, but, like the book, it is geared for both adults and children (you probably would have read this in 4th or 5th grade). It is a story about growing up, about loss, and about fighting your internal demons. Difficult subjects -- were honestly and sensitively handled in this film. All the experiences that Jess goes through are things that everyone (at some point) must deal with in life. It isn't a fantasy movie, it's a film about growing up. [V5.0-A4.5] MPEG-4 AVC - D-Box 9.0/10 - All of the motions associated with the mythical creatures of Terabithia were stunning and this would have gotten a 10/10 if it weren't for so many quiet scenes and missed opportunities for motion at the school. Cast Notes: Josh Hutcherson (Jess Aarons), AnnaSophia Robb (Leslie Burke), Zooey Deschanel (Ms. Edmunds), Robert Patrick (Jack Aarons), Bailee Madison (May Belle Aarons), Kate Butler (Mary Aarons), Devon Wood (Brenda Aarons), Emma Fenton (Ellie Aarons), Grace Brannigan (Joyce Aarons), Latham Gaines (Bill Burke), Judy McIntosh (Judy Burke), Patricia Aldersley (Grandma Burke), Lauren Clinton (Janice Avery), Isabelle Rose Kircher (Carla), Cameron Wakefield (Scott Hoager). IMDb Rating (06/28/11): 7.3/10 from 38,960 users
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