Blu-Ray Review: Journey 2: The Mysterious Island

Journey 2: The Mysterious Island Blu-ray Combo Pack

When Sean (Josh Hutcherson) receives a coded message from his grandfather (Michael Caine), he wants to leave immediately for the fabled “Mysterious Island.” Sean’s mother allows him to go – on the condition that his new step father (Dwayne Johnson) accompanies him. But on the way to this island that shouldn’t exist, their helicopter hits a storm and crashes. Now Sean, his step father, the helicopter pilot (Luis Guzman), and the pilot’s daughter (Vanessa Hudgens) need to find a way off the island. Though it’s full of unexplored wonders, they’re in a race against time to find a way off before the whole island sinks to the ocean floor.

While this is a sequel to Journey to the Center of the Earth, it’s not necessary to have seen the first installment. Journey 2 is a standalone story, with Sean going on an entirely separate adventure. As before, this adventure is immersed in classic science fiction. Fans of classic scifi, young and old, will enjoy the numerous references and Jules Verne’s Mysterious Island brought to new heights. With creatures of humorous sizes, a volcano full of gold, and other bizarre secrets – this island unfortunately can’t be fully explored because of an unfortunate timetable. Of course, suspension of belief must be held for most science fiction movies (especially geared towards children), but the sinking of the island really pushes it.

But for the most part, this was a surprisingly enjoyable, if mostly corny and predictable, movie for young families. While a fast-paced adventure, there is no violence or profanity, so even very young children can enjoy (as long as they don’t mind the occasional giant bug). The acting is good for a heart-warming family film. Hutcherson (“Hunger Games”) and Dwane “The Rock” Johnson of course steer the story. And the supporting cast provides comedy relief and a cute romantic interest for Sean. Johnson has been doing a lot of family movies lately, and this may be one of his more watchable ones. I love that he can laugh at himself and still be a strong character. All-in-all Journey 2 is a cute, clean, family movie that won’t make you think too much and will entertain the kids.

Own it on Blu-ray Combo Pack or Digital Download 6.5.12

Special Features Include:
Interactive Adventure guided by Josh Hutcherson: Discover the skills it takes to ride Giant Bees, outsmart a Hungry Mama Lizard, and ultimately prove you have what it takes to survive on the Mysterious Island! Can be experienced as an interactive adventure or a passive linear piece.

Introduction with Josh Hutcherson
Alexander’s Treehouse
Lost City of Atlantis
The Giant Flowers
The Mushroom Forest
The Golden Volcano
The Lizard’s Nest
The Gigantic Bumble Bee
Nemo’s Tomb
Nemo’s Cave
Nemo’s Submarine
Map Payoff
Gag Reel
Deleted Scenes