Plenty of action in 'Astro Boy'

Director: David Bowers

Cast (Voices): Nicholas Cage, Kristin Bell, Donald Sutherland, Charlize Theron, Freddy Highmore

Cert: PG

The popular Japanese TV character comes to the big screen with a sterling cast and excellent animation.

There is plenty of action and humour to keep the kiddies happy, even allowing for the ‘message’ about the pitfalls of playing God and finding yourself.

The story concerns a father’s loss – scientist (Cage) loses young son and invents a replacement in robot Astro Boy (Highmore) – and his relationship with his ‘son’. The boy discovers he’s a super-hero and sets about battling evil aliens.

It’s a well-made film with enough adult themes to maintain grown-up interest.

Star Rating: 3/5