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Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events
pp. 58
$4.95
pub. by Nickelodeon Magazine Group
various artists and writers
The current issue of Nick Mag Presents adapts the motion picture, Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events, that, in turn, is based on a series of successful children's books. In addition to the adaptation, this issue features an interview with actor Jim Carrey, Unfortunate Movie Props, an article on how Carrey's make-up was applied, several puzzles, and a one-page comic strip called Vicky's Five Dollars.
Having not seen the movie or read any of the books, this review of the adaptation can at least be unprejudiced. I didn't like it. I didn't like Sam Hiti's very flat art. Perspective is almost non-existent and therefore destroys even the illusion of depth. His visual storytelling is strong, but his art is minimalistic and crude and looks like it was drawn by a ten year old.
To make certain that my assessment was correct, I gave the issue to my ten-year-old niece. She said the art was "cool".
I didn't like the story either. Sure, the dialog is fine, and the pacing is adequate. But Lemony Snicket and cast lack the high imagination of a Dr. Seuss or Frank Baum. Count Olaf is an unbelievable stereotype of a 'bad guy," and even the orphans he terrorizes to steal their inheritance lack depth of character.
My niece thought the story was great. So what qualifies an old fuddy-duddy like me to know what to recommend for young readers? I mean, let's face it, I don't get Bob Square-pants cartoons either.
I listen to a niece who is smarter than I. Nick Mag's mission is to produce features that children will enjoy, and does so. This issue is recommended for preteens.
-- by Michael Vance
Shudder at Vance's Light's End horror short stories narrated by actor William Windom at www.plan9.org.
Questions? Comment? E-Mail Suspended Animation at vance@digitalwebbing.com
Any statements made, expressed or implied are solely those of columnists or persons interviewed and do not represent the editorial position of the administration, who does not accept responsibility of such statements. All characters and artwork shown are trademark and © of their respective owners.
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