Great Kids' Movie, Even for Grown-ups: 'City of Ember'

The main reason I was so excited to see this movie is because it was adapted from a bestselling series of books by Jeanne Duprau. The "Ember" series of novels premiered in 2003 with "City of Ember", the first in a series of four.

While I must admit that I've never read a single book in the series I did want to find out what the stories were all about. I've never been one to read book series', they just don't appeal to me. Even though I've read nearly every Stephen King book written, I have never read a single episode of his "Dark Tower" series. Still I hold a great curiosity for what other readers find appealing about series'.

My lousy reading-loyalty aside, my first foray into the world of Ember was a pleasant one -- albeit through film rather than ink. The plot of "Ember" was so detailed and well-crafted that it had me rethinking my own stubborn stance on reading book series'.

The film begins with a room full of scientists discussing the world's imminent demise (not a new concept, but well played all the same). Fast forward to several hundred years later and we find that the few remnants of humanity have gathered and built a city deep underground. As mankind struggles to survive in this post-apocalyptic world, the utmost danger comes not from insanity, mutants, nor any of the other antagonists that usually hinder the plots of post-apocalyptic stories. No, the danger to the City of Ember comes from the darkness -- that is, an inability to provide adequate light. The City is run by an ancient generator that provides all of the power for the subterranean city, and the generator is failing.

Not only does this movie provide an adventure that can suck in children of all ages, but it also offers a cast of characters that really make the film an instant classic. Bill Murray definitely gave one of the finest performances of the film, playing the City's Mayor who is curiously overweight for a city with a dwindling food supply.

As for a day off movie, this one makes for a perfect day off. Throw on some pajamas, get together all your snacks and set your lazy butt on the couch for a great visual adventure. Best part is: you can even let the kids have a day off for this one.