September 29, 2006
This film not only says these words bluntly, but also imaginatively illustrates how to keep a family together, though the fun may distract you from these themes. A second viewing may help them become more apparent.
The production values are very high, although several set and story elements are boldly fantastic.
An added benefit for a select few: if you are a father with once young, impressionable children who in the ancient past watched "Pee Wee's Playhouse", this film will be especially satisfying.
The casting for Spy Kids is top drawer. The children, perhaps not the leading performers of the century, are completely well suited for this film – I wouldn't change them for anyone. (You shouldn't either.) The parents are also wonderful. And watch for several other familiar performers – my family are particular fans of Tony Shaloub (Minion). You may have seen Tony in "Monk", or "Galaxy Quest" or elsewhere.
Warning – some people have said this movie is dumb. So, if you have no imagination, no appreciation for transcendence or appetite for family unity, if you'd rather throw mud and poke people with sticks, I recommend you stay away. But if you love all that is good, genuinely subtle and clever, too, watch carefully
