Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 3D (2012)

When it’s over, this film was so much fun.  This sequel to Journey to the Centre of the Earth (2008) has Sean (Josh Hutcherson) and his stepfather, Hank (Johnson), venturing to an uncharted island in search of Sean’s missing grandfather (Michael Caine).  Yes, it's over the top and much of it is unbelievable, but with a good cast and a straightforward storyline, the fun comes natural and enjoyable.  It's a great family film, because there's plenty of eye candy for the kids and enough silly humour to keep the adults interested, especially between Johnson and Caine.  It’s overdosed with CGI and, of course, 3D effects which keeps the action exciting and fresh.  There are some interesting surprises throughout the film including a musical number sung by Dwayne Johnson with a ukulele.  That was sweet and unexpected.  Plus, Mother Nature offers a new twist to the animal kingdom on this mythical island.  Children will marvel at the animals and adults will appreciate how those animals are integrated into the storyline.  My favourite was definitely the miniature elephants.  They were absolutely adorable.  Can I have one?  Rounding out the supporting cast are Vanessa Hudgens as Sean's love interest, and Luis Guzman as the well casted comic relief.    


My rating:  4 out of 5