Journalists may well see themselves in Tintin's inquisitiveness, persistence, and intelligence
MANILA, Philippines — Christmas is a few days away but it's almost as if it's here with the excitement that the action-packed Steven Spielberg animated film, “The Adventures of Tintin,” brings.
The film, adapted from the series of classic comic books by Belgian artist Georges Remi, more popularly known as Herge, is visually dazzling, looking so meticulously executed from start to finish—yes, the opening credits included—that all the hard work put into the material couldn’t be denied. Yet at the same time, the visuals look effortless, making it all the more enjoyable to behold.
The film’s beautifully drawn characters have a photorealistic look in them; at times, they seemed almost realistic. It helped that their eyes also convey expressions and emotions almost like actual human actors as this further enlivened the film. The use of performance capture and 3D animation likewise enhanced the overall visual experience for the audience.
“Tintin” takes audiences into the world of a renowned young journalist of the same name, who has a thirst for discovery, adventure, and mysteries. His hunger to embark on uncharted waters is refueled when he comes across—and purchases—a vintage model of a ship called Unicorn. This ship, he soon learns, is not of the ordinary kind as it is coveted by model ship collector named Ivan Sakharine, who secretly wants more than just these miniature ships.
Tintin, with his reliable and smart pet dog Snowy, ventures to piece the puzzle together with the help of Captain Haddock, who holds the major keys to solving the mystery.
The excitement in “Tintin” heightens as its plot thickens, and Spielberg, together with his team including his co-producers Peter Jackson and Kathleen Kennedy, provided enough chase and fight scenes to keep viewers hooked. One instance is at the second half of the film, in which Tintin and Captain Haddock and Sakharine’s teams run after each other on the streets of a fictitious place in Morocco named Bagghar, to snag the three scrolls which will reveal the location of a hidden treasure.
John Williams, who made “Star Wars,” “Jaws,” “Harry Potter” and “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial” more memorable with his epic musical scores, likewise composed the music for “Tintin.” His score gels well with Tintin’s character, reflecting his curiosity, inquisitiveness, and passion for learning.
“Tintin” features a stellar cast of actors who lent their voices to the characters, led by Jamie Bell (Tintin), and also includes Andy Serkis (Captain Haddock), Daniel Craig (Sakharine), and Simon Pegg and Nick Frost (detectives Thompson and Thompson).
The film’s hanging ending signals that there might be more to come for Tintin, Snowy and their newfound pal Captain Haddock. Bring it on.
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