Writer: Audrey Ker

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Watch this if you liked: “Happy Feet”, “Finding Nemo”

Even with a mouthful of a title (try saying it five times fast), "Legend Of The Guardians: The Owls Of Ga'hoole" is a breathtaking piece by Zack Snyder, the director who brought us "Watchmen" and "300". "Legend Of The Guardians" is a big departure from the blood and gore of his previous films, but he showed that even without those elements a great film he could direct.

Based on a series of books by the same name, "Legend Of The Guardians" follows the adventures of Soren (Jim Sturgess), a barn owlet enthralled about the stories his father (Hugo Weaving) tells of a legendary group of owls called The Guardians of Ga'hoole. Soren and his brother Kludd (Ryan Kwanten) is kidnapped and taken to a place called St. Aegolius where 'orphaned' owlets are brainwashed to be soldiers for a more sinister cause. Soren and a bunch of new friends manage to escape and head off to warn the Guardians. Will they succeed and will the Guardians prevail?

Coming from the same visual effects studio that brought us the affable "Happy Feet", one can definitely expect the same attention to detail for the owls in "Legend Of The Guardians". The owls look so lifelike it's uncanny; and yet one can't help but stare back at the splendor that is the owls and their world in this film. At some points of the film, this reviewer can't help but be swept away by the scenic views of Ga'hoole and even the darker St. Aegolius! If one has to compare, "Avatar" and even "Lord Of The Rings" come to mind.

Zack Snyder's signature style of slow motion scenes is put to great use here as well. There are plenty of those throughout, but it doesn't slow down the pace of the film one bit. Look out for the epic battle between the owls. It is simply amazing to watch, and it's enhanced even more with the 3D effects! With that said, "Legend Of The Guardians" needs to be fully enjoyed in 3D. The visuals are just a different league with the depth perception that 3D provides.

This movie is a definite green light for family viewing, but don't be quick to dismiss it as a kids' movie. There is enough action, breathtaking visuals and great storyline to impress the adults as well. Let's just hope that there will be no demand for pet owls a la Harry Potter after the movie!

Cinema Online, 20 September 2010