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Jumanji Review

What I liked: Jumanji lent itself really well to updating. The video game format was great the whole thing seemed just as ridiculous as old nintendo games. Why do knives pop out of the floor? Why is there a whole field full of snakes? Why are the rhinos and hippos carnivorous? Why are the goons completely clueless? Why does the villain have a centipede living in his ear? No reason besides it's a video game. Also all of the other characters acted just like old video game characters, only delivering set lines over and over. Each of the main characters had special abilities and special weaknesses; every time either was activated it was quite funny. My favorites were the zoologists extensive knowledge of all the local animals, especially the inexplicably carnivorous ones, the smolder complete with dramatic music, a susceptibility to cake, and dance fighting. I also really liked the squirrels, the flirting lesson, and the way that shouting what the character needed to do worked great. I do that every time I play video games and it never works out quite as well. 

What I didn't: I'm sorely disappointed that there was no river level. What self respecting jungle game doesn't have a rafting adventure where you have to shoot rapids, dodge crocodiles, and navigate tight turns? They really should have used the bazaar more. You know, collect supplies, get healing potions, smash some jars, scare some chickens, upgrade weaponry. Characters should gain experience points and level up abilities, that would have been a useful addition to the flirting lessons and flying aspects. Also I feel like board games that mysteriously transform into video games should be treated with suspicion. And if you had the last name Freak, don't you think you would legally change it?

Who should watch this? Those looking for a lighthearted flick.

Would I watch it again? I'm glad I watched it, I probably won't rewatch it.
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