Alien at the Movies

A 12-year-old boy is haunted by a recurring nightmare that resembles a gigantic Groot that sounds like Brian Mills. This monster is a manifestation of the boy's fears & anger although he believes it's the healing tree & the answer to his hopes. This is a film of surprises. First of all, it may appear to be a children's film, but it's not delightful fun & adventure for young kids. There are issues of bullying & uncontrolled fits of anger as a young person wrestles the realities of life. There are fairy tale like stories with unexpected results. This is a well crafted film with artistic illustrations & tremendous special effects but it is a sad movie about a troubled boy trying to handle an overwhelming situation involving his mother (Felicity Jones) & grandmother (Sigourney Weaver). This beautifully dark & dreary tale feels more therapeutic than entertainment as connection to ones past are made.

Alien gives it 3 "12:07" stars out of 4.