Eragon review

Hmm. To begin with, I have to admit I was curious as to the how a 15 year old would construct a fantasy story. There is a STRONG resemblence to the Star Wars plot. A young man who is raised by an uncle. (Eragon) The village is part of an empire that is run by someone who was part of a legion of dragon riders and then betrayed them. (Galbatorix) There is a group of people who are considered the resistance to the evil king and a young woman holds the key to their survival (Arya and the dragon egg) There is also a mentor to the young man (Brom). The young man's uncle is killed by the king's minions. I could go on, but I think you get the picture. If you can look past all of this similarity, the movie was pretty good. The aerial shots of the dragon flying was too much visual stimulation for me. ( I don't do well at fairs and other "fun" roller coasters, etc). The movie was enough to pique my interest in the book trilogy since there seemed to be gaps within the story even though it flowed fairly well.

I must also add that there is some Tolkien influence in the language and use of magic and elves. But, who can blame a 15 YO for taking the best of two of the greatest story tellers of our time? It may not be the most original, but it was enjoyable for a Saturday afternoon.

Now, I realize that I am not a critic and I don't always agree with what the critics decide is good or not. But, for a decent story, some decent acting (Jeremy Irons and John Malkovich!), and excellent cinematography, I would recommend this!out of five. I will definitely buy the DVD when it is released. I will also be looking forward to the sequel. The ending leaves the possibility wide open!

If someone else has seen this I would like to hear their opinion!