My main concern is that they're playing very fast and loose with this source material. Throughout the entire series it was only hinted and teased that the Aunt and Uncle had powers, never confirmed, and Lewis never had powers of his own. It looks like the creators of this film are trying to capitalize on the Harry Potter phenomena and make this into a sort of knock off. That's unfortunate.
shareThe movie has been referred to as very Harry Potter-esque by several reviewers (The House with a Clock in Its Wall predating Harry Potter notwithstanding), so looks like you were correct Although, these reviews complimented this adaptation.
The movie looks fun and it is getting decent reviews. But expecting a faithful adaptation was probably always out of the question. I mean when Eli Roth was announced as the director, I figured the movie could take ANY direction. As it is, this big screen adaption looks enchanting. I look forward to seeing Cate Blanchett in it.
"Throughout the entire series it was only hinted and teased that the Aunt and Uncle had powers, never confirmed"
That is not correct.
It's been 30+ years since I've read the books, but I don't have any recollection of overt displays of power by the aunt and uncle. The previews certainly didn't look anything like what I recall the book(s) being about.
shareI'll just lay this one out. Mrs. Zimmerman (who is Jonathan's neighbor, not "the aunt") has a battle (of magic) with Mrs. Izzard right towards the end of the book where she even thinks she may have defeated her. Sounds like power to me. You said it yourself, it's been a long time since you read them.
shareMrs. Zimmerman had powers while Uncle Jonathan could only create realistic illusions.
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