Where the Wild Things Are (Blu-Ray/DVD)
I'm not familiar with Maurice Sendak's illustrated book so can't tell you whether this film compares favourably. But, as a cinematic work in its own right, Spike Jonze's movie is creative, enchanting and entertaining.
It's a voyage into the over-active imagination of an 11-year-old boy. And, as that boy, Max Records is brilliant. He makes the character of Max believable and sympathetic.
The 'Wild Things' - which reflect different parts of Max's personality - are fantastic creations by the Jim Henson Creature Workshop. Thank heavens they didn't use CGI! And the vocal casting is spot on. The 'Thing' who's closest to Max, Carol, is like an over-sized teddy bear, prone to outbursts of uncontrollable rage. James Gandolfini was the obvious choice to play this hairy Tony Soprano!
Also worthy of note: the sumptuous cinematography and the funky score by Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.
