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Bridge to Terabithia

Bridge to Terabithia (2007)

Feb 15, 2007 1h 36m Adventure Drama Family

Jesse Aarons trained all summer to become the fastest runner in school. So he's very upset when newcomer Leslie Burke outruns him and everyone else. Despite this and other differences including that she's rich, he's poor, she's a city girl, and he's a country boy the two become fast friends. Together they create Terabithia, a land of monsters, trolls, ogres, and giants where they rule as king and queen.

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Directed by Gábor Csupó

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Gábor Csupó
Producer
  • Lauren Levine
  • David Paterson
  • Hal Lieberman

Reviews

Joe
9/10

Beautiful movie! So sweet, adorable and sad and hard-hitting at times too!

May 5, 2017

r96sk
7/10

Starts as a run-of-the-mill film, but I'll be honest I didn't see that turn in the second half coming - in a good way.

<em>'Bridge to Terabithia'</em>, in my opinion, is just short of being anything more than good, but I go away from viewing it in a much more touched state than I would've predicted at the midway point; the second half is very well done.

Josh Hutcherson (Jess) and AnnaSophia Robb (Leslie) make for a fine pairing, I bought their friendship from the beginning - Hutcherson's performance steadily gets better as the film progresses. I also took notice of Robert Patrick (Jack) and Zooey Deschanel (Ms. Edmunds), but it's very much the Hutcherson/Robb show.

Overall, it's an endearing film with a pretty creative premise. I like it.

Nov 5, 2020

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Bridge to Terabithia examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Gábor Csupó brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Bridge to Terabithia took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $60.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2007, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Bridge to Terabithia shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Belle, which focuses more on action than character development, Bridge to Terabithia subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Raging Bull and What's Eating Gilbert Grape explore similar territory, Bridge to Terabithia stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 15, 2007
  • Runtime: 1h 36m
  • Budget: $60,000,000
  • Revenue: $137,587,063

Where to Watch

Disney Plus

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