This Disney eco-flick about a huge gorilla may be as predictable as rain in a rainforest, but it's an enjoyable caper none the less. Mighty Joe is a freak of nature who lives in the fastness of Central Africa watched over by jungle girl Jill (Theron). Having both lost their mothers to poachers - during the film's only truly harrowing scene - the pair have become inseparable. Along stumbles zoologist Gregg (Paxton) who comes within inches of extinction following a surprise encounter with the fearsome but ultimately kind-hearted beast. Word spreads of Gregg's discovery, and before long the poachers are back. Jill and Gregg ship Joe to the deceptive safety of a Californian animal reserve and, eventually, to a cliff-hanging climax. Despite its longueurs, this is a welcome revamp of a genre that includes King Kong, ET and virtually every movie that pits misplaced creatures against evil humans. Most impressive, though, are the special effects.
Details
Release details
Cast and crew
Director:
Ron Underwood
Screenwriter:
Mark Rosenthal, Lawrence Konner
Cast:
Bill Paxton Charlize Theron Peter Firth Rade Serbedzija Regina King Naveen Andrews David Paymer