I raced through the book at Christmas and thought this is a wonderful story but I’ve no idea how they will film it. Then I went to see the movie and think it has done a good job of transforming the story for the screen. In fact I would go as far as saying the message of the story is more coherent in the film than the book (and it’s a message I like). Probably because it’s more concise having to fit into two hours (although that did not stop them adding a new element to the leaving India part – don’t remember any dancers in the book).
I’d say the visual effects are very good – sometimes it felt like I was watching an elaborate stage production as the ocean was not gritty enough for real life (or the dishevelled Pi after so long at sea) but the CGI of the animals is amazing. Although I saw the 3D version I’d be happy with the 2D version. I think seeing this movie on the big screen is amazing enough and the extra depth doesn’t really make all that difference. The shots of the zoo at the beginning were pretty cool but after that any sticking out of the screen bits felt gimmicky.
So all in all I’d recommend the film as its good entertainment, a feast for the eyes and makes you question things a little. Always fun.
