The Spiderwick Chronicles Critic Reviews

A well-crafted family thriller that is truly scary and doesn't wimp out.Read the full review

A mostly superb cast, superior special effects, a sparkling musical score and a fantasy-filled plot .Read the full review

Not great fantasy, but it's on more solid ground than "The Golden Compass" and will seem less baffling to some. There's enough here to keep adults engaged, which is an important component of any motion picture that wants to be known as "family entertainment."Read the full review

A work of both modest enchantment and enchanting modesty, grounded in a classically Spielbergian realm where childlike wonderment crosses paths with the tough realities of young adulthood.Read the full review

Suffers slightly from that not-so-fresh feeling.Read the full review

The children's real world, or what passes for real in a fantasy, could hardly be more inviting, for reasons that are hardly mysterious: the strong performances, under Mark Waters's accomplished direction; the smart, bright language, much of it taken from the books; the stylish cinematography, by Caleb Deschanel.Read the full review

An enjoyable adventure fantasy that pushes all the requisite buttons while still managing to throw in a pleasant surprise or two.Read the full review

Anyone looking for handsomely presented, kid-friendly thrills need look no further.Read the full review

Spiderwick is set in the present, but goes for an overall design look of dainty, cozy, William Morris-y arts-andcraftiness.Read the full review