The Adventures of Huck Finn
Reviewed by Aurora C. ***** (5 out of 5)
Inspired by Mark Twain's famous novel, The Adventures of Huck Finn focuses on a few of the many explorations embarked upon by the independent and rowdy Huckleberry Finn. It features Elijah Wood in the lead role of "Huck," Courtney B. Vance in the supporting role of "Jim" the slave, as well as Ron Perlman, Robbie Coltrane, and Jason Robards in the less featured roles of "Pap Finn," "The Duke," and "The King."
A collection of ruffians surrounds a pair of boys that are having a rambunctious fist-fight. Cheers of, "Go for the glory, Huck! 'Go for the glory!" sporadically emerge from the crowd. Huck, upon being knocked to the ground by the other boy, notices a recent shoe-print in the sandy riverbank. He whispers "Pap!" in a terrified voice, implying that he is not at all excited to possibly encounter his father. This unpleasant discovery leads him to consult his friend Jim, and through recommendation from his friend, resolves to disappear until his father leaves again. He procrastinates departing; however, and his abusive parent intercepts him before he can make an escape. Fortunately, Huck does make a successful getaway from his Pap and, after a surprise encounter with Jim, begins an adventurous raft-ride down the Mississippi River. More than several hilarious incidents occur along the way, which include a great deal of "borrowing" as well as the telling of innumerable "stretchers" by Huck. Before long, they become involuntarily connected with two thieving con-artists who go by the names of "The Duke" and "The King." These vagabonds scheme to deceive a family out of their inheritance; while posing as long lost uncles from England. Even worse, the two villains force Huck and Jim to participate in their plan. The situation becomes increasingly dangerous when confrontation occurs, resulting in near-death experiences for both Huck and Jim. Suspense abounds, but despite some nail-biting events, all does end very happily. . . The only disappointment is that this adorable movie is only 108 minutes long :)