Buena Vista Home Video Wrinkle in TIME, A

Director John Kent Harrison’s imaginative film adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s 1963 A Wrinkle in Time may not be able to fully satisfy the immense expectations of those decidedly loyal to L’Engle’s book, yet delivers a family thriller impressive enough to stand on its own merits. Katie Stuart plays Meg Murry, the introverted, intelligent oldest child of Dr. Jack Murry, an astrophysicist who has suddenly disappeared without a trace. As Meg struggles with her father’s absence and her own coming-of-age awkwardness, she tightens her bond with Charles Wallace (David Dorfman), her brilliant, eccentric 6-year-old brother. When a trio of celestial beings summons them to find their father, the children are joined by neighbor Calvin O’Keefe (Gregory Smith) to embark on a dangerous journey of time travel. They “tesseract” onto the planet Camazotz where Dr. Murry is being held prisoner by an evil force. The film retains the essence of the novel, and deftly employs its 128-minute running time to build viewer affinity for the heroic children. The special effects will not disappoint, though the climatic last battle should have held closer to the book. Stuart is exemplary as the understated and deeply reflective Meg, while Dorfman dazzles as conflicted Charles Wallace. (Ages 8 and older) –Lynn Gibson

Madeleine L’Engle’s best-selling and beloved Newbery Award-winning novel bursts to life in a spectacular family film that TV Guide calls “a charming and imaginative film.” When astrophysicist Dr. Jack Murry disappears without a trace, his children, Meg and Charles Wallace, and neighbor Calvin O’Keefe embark on a cosmic quest to find him. Guided by Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, the children travel to a distant planet and encounter a society controlled by an evil force. They must trust themselves and one another if they are to rescue Dr. Murry and return home safely. Enjoy the nonstop excitement and adventure of A WRINKLE IN TIME, starring Academy Award(R)-nominated actress Alfre Woodard (1984 Best Supporting Actress, CROSS CREEK) and teen idol Gregory Smith from TV’s EVERWOOD. It’s an amazing journey your family will want to take over and over again.