Nineteenth century Mississippi River boy Elijah Wood (as Huckleberry "Huck" Finn) may be tiny, but he has a lot of spunk. In the opening sequence, he beats up a bigger boy and bloodies his nose. This may be filmmakers' way of drawing a connection to young Wood's own abuse, as we quickly learn he is being beaten by his father. The opening fight ends when Wood sees the distinctive footprint of his abusive father Ron Perlman (as "Pap"). Wood escapes the madman's clutches and joins forces with runaway slave Courtney B. Vance (as Jim). They have several adventures together, and learn about freedom...
This adaptation of Mark Twain's superior novel is probably going to be most successful with young primary or elementary school children; most others will find it insufferable. It can invite discussion of - and comparison with - the original work. Letting youngsters know "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is a banned novel they should not read can also promote reading. This film has bright, colorful locations. The part where Wood plays "Huck" as Charles Dickens' "The Artful Dodger" is telegraphed before he assumes the British accent. "Tom Sawyer" is given no opportunity to steal scenes.
*** The Adventures of Huck Finn (4/2/93) Stephen Sommers ~ Elijah Wood, Courtney B. Vance, Robbie Coltrane, Jason Robards
This adaptation of Mark Twain's superior novel is probably going to be most successful with young primary or elementary school children; most others will find it insufferable. It can invite discussion of - and comparison with - the original work. Letting youngsters know "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is a banned novel they should not read can also promote reading. This film has bright, colorful locations. The part where Wood plays "Huck" as Charles Dickens' "The Artful Dodger" is telegraphed before he assumes the British accent. "Tom Sawyer" is given no opportunity to steal scenes.
*** The Adventures of Huck Finn (4/2/93) Stephen Sommers ~ Elijah Wood, Courtney B. Vance, Robbie Coltrane, Jason Robards