
Variety
Action movies of this scale often start off strong and wind down to forgettable finales, but "Percy Jackson" is the opposite, overcoming a clunky setup to deliver nearly all its thrills in the last half-hour.
Full reviewIt’s the 21st century, but the gods of Mount Olympus and assorted monsters have walked out of the pages of high school student Percy Jackson’s Greek mythology texts and into his life. And they’re not happy: Zeus’ lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. Even more troubling is the sudden disappearance of Percy’s mother. As Percy finds himself caught between angry and battling gods, he and his friends embark on a cross-country adventure to catch the true lightning thief, save Percy’s mum, and unravel a mystery more powerful than the gods themselves.
Action movies of this scale often start off strong and wind down to forgettable finales, but "Percy Jackson" is the opposite, overcoming a clunky setup to deliver nearly all its thrills in the last half-hour.
Full reviewWhile you suspect it’s really just a big Clash Of The Titans spoiler, there’s enough action in Jackson to make it succeed on its own terms. Lerman’s a likeable lead, though it’s the game supporting cast that keeps you watching.
Full reviewFor all the earth shaking that goes on, “Percy Jackson” is agreeably tame and unthreatening.
Full reviewThe popular kids' book series about the son of a Greek god has been turned into a silly, sporadically exciting film.
Full reviewDirector Chris Columbus has fun with this goofy premise, but as always I am distracted by the practical aspects of the story. Does it bother the Greek gods that no one any longer knows or cares that they rule the world? What are the genetic implications of human/god interbreeding?
Full reviewSo has "Percy Jackson" successfully cracked the "Potter" code? In terms of overall quality, not even close. Still, the film's carefully calibrated mixture of CGI-enhanced spectacle, diverting (and blood-free) action sequences and adolescent angst could make it a modest hit with the eight to 12-year-old set.
Full reviewSlavishly follows every rule of the kids’ fantasy franchise genre, but it’s a well-executed and imagined world. Bet the sequel’s darker.
Full reviewPercy Jackson & The Lightning Thief is available to stream in New Zealand now on Google Play and Apple TV and Disney+.
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