See it at the Movies

EARTH TO ECHO

Joyce and Don Fowler
Posted 7/9/14

* * ½

(It’s no “E.T.”)

We don’t know why everyone is comparing “Earth To Echo” to “E.T.”

Sure, it’s about some kids who discover an extraterrestrial that is trying to …

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See it at the Movies

EARTH TO ECHO

Posted

* * ½

(It’s no “E.T.”)

We don’t know why everyone is comparing “Earth To Echo” to “E.T.”

Sure, it’s about some kids who discover an extraterrestrial that is trying to find its way home, but these are different kids living in a different age of high tech and electronic gadgets.

True, the lessons about friendship and there’s no place like home are all there, and the kids are much more sensitive than the adults. But that’s about it.

Reese Hartwig is Munch, a nerdy tech nut. Teo Halm is Alex, a sensitive foster kid. Brian Bradley plays Tuck, the camera nut who also narrates. The three pals are spending their last night together, as a new highway is forcing a neighborhood relocation.

The trio discover a capsule containing a mechanical alien that looks like a metal owl with big blue eyes. They play Twenty Questions with the creature, which they name Echo, who answers them with one or two beeps for yes or no.

These kids have all the bells and whistles, including the most up-to-date cell phones and video cameras. Their phones go crazy, showing what looks like a map.

Meanwhile, men posing as construction workers are looking for Echo, while the kids are trying to help him get back to wherever he came from.

Our problem with the movie is the technique that is used to tell the story. Think “Blair Witch Project” or “Paranormal Activity.” The hand-held camera with narrator is irritating and confusing to watch.

The young folks may enjoy the electronic age “E.T.,” but we’ll take Henry Thomas and his flying bicycle any day.

Rated PG, with nothing to worry about for the young ones. Anyone over 12 will be bored.

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