The Spiderwick Chronicles really works as a wonderful kids' movie. You have the house shrouded in mystery, three kids who have dynamically different personalities, fanciful creatures, and a mystery that is impossible to grasp until they are so far in that there is no choice but to survive or die.

The Spiderwick Chronicles has non-stop action throughout the movie and has some serious "made you jump" spots, especially for the kids. For the adults, it really is not that bad, although there are some situations that are less believable. While I have not read the books, I suspect there is a lot left out based on time constraints. There is a boatload of extras (see below), which I would expect for a two-disk DVD of this quality.

Some of the things I really liked about The Spiderwick Chronicles is, first and foremost, the acting. All four of the main characters, and Arthur and Lucy Spiderwick's portrayals, are first rate. Next were the effects and pacing. There was not a dull moment to be had and it kept the kids on the edge of their seats. There might be some spots too intense for children under eight-years-old, so keep that in mind.

Finally, I liked the fact that this was not played too safe. There was a bit of fear factor and I like the "sometimes bad things happen" element that was more evident in children's movies of old, like Bambi or Wizard of Oz. Overall, I highly recommend this movie.

For the kids

For the adults

Extra Features:
"Spiderwick: It's All True!", with director Mark Waters proclaiming everything in the film is true.

It's a Spiderwick World featurette discusses the origin of the story.

You can turn on Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide to learn more about the creatures featured in the film while you're watching the movie.

"Meet the Clan" is about casting an English boy and an Irish girl in the lead roles.

"Making Spiderwick" looks at the production design

"Magic of Spiderwick" is a look at the visual effects.

"A Final Word of Advice" has director Mark Waters continuing to try to assure the audience the Spiderwick world is based in fact.

There are four deleted scenes.