Low plot and high adventure is the order of the day in this, the second part of Brendan Fraser’s September action double, Journey to the Centre of the Earth. (The third Mummy film Tomb of the Dagon Emperor was released two weeks before.)  

In this version, Jules Verne’s sci-fi classic in not only used as a source material but also as a bible of sorts within the film, as members of a secret society known as the Vernian’s – who take the writings of Verne as literal fact – try to locate the centre of the Earth. Among them is the now missing brother of vulcanologist Prof. Trevor Anderson (Brendan Fraser, who turns on his patented mixture of heroism and goofiness).

Together with his nephew Sean (Josh Hutcherson), Trevor travels to Iceland in order to investigate his brother’s disappearance, as well as uncharacteristic seismic activity at a long dormant volcano where his brother was last seen. With the help of mountain guide Hannah (Anita Briem), the trio press ahead with their investigation, but it does not take long for disaster to strike and find themselves indeed at the centre of the earth.     

Once there, the film starts to live up to its promise as action and impressive visual effects take over. This is a pretty film to look at, no doubt due to the fact that director Eric Brevig (in his directorial debut) is a twice Oscar nominated special effects man. Here he makes the right decisions as to which direction the visual effects should go, opting for a green screen approach which works impressively well.

Effects are coupled with solid action sequences, as Fraser and co. battle against sea monsters, dinosaurs, and an assortment of other weird and wonderful creatures. Also on had is a rail cart ride to rival Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and a free fall to rival that in Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey. 

So all in all this latest adaptation of Journey to the Centre of the Earth is clean cut entertainment recommended for a family night out, although some scenes may frighten the little ones.

Note: Journey to the Centre to the Earth will also be shown in the 3-D format. I would strongly recommend this option for some true entertainment value.