The Boxcar Children: Surprise Island

Released May 8, 2018

1h 22m

Kids & Family

Adventure

Animation

List

Reviews

80%

Fewer than 50 Ratings

Audience Score

Kids spend the summer on their grandfather's private island.

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The film, The Boxcar Children: Surprise Island is based on the second book in the series by Gertrude Chandler. In this series and film, the children now have a home with their grandfather (Martin Sheen). The first surprise comes when the children learn that they'll be spending the summer on a private island belonging to their grandfather. Once on the island they meet Joe, an overseer of the island. During their visit, they turn an old barn into their home base and explore throughout the island. The children encounter many surprises as they cope with living on their own (as they always have), survive a perilous event and have many other adventures. Near the end of the film, a final secret "surprise" involving Joe is revealed. The success of the book series is a definite draw and the "Surprise" feature will definitely entice young people towards the film. In many ways, the film comes across as very sophisticated and smart. It does not "dumb down" to the viewer. It is equally enticing for adults for those reasons. It is also very scenic and takes the viewer away as they envision themselves on the island with these characters. One drawback is that the plot is slow in developing, which could be a problem for some viewers. The CGI visuals are amazing and the sound quality is exceptional, especially the song that plays during the closing credits. I recommend this film for ages 6 to 14 and give it 4 out of 5 stars. Fathom Events will be offering a special after school screening in 700+ theaters nationwide on May 8, 2018 so, be sure to look for one near you. Reviewed by Kimberly M., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

03/31/23

Full Review

Audience Member

enjoyable family cartoon and good sequel

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

01/13/23

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Anna Chi

Director

Daniel Chuba

Director

Mark A.Z. Dippe

Director

Wonjae Lee

Director

Joey King

Jessie

Dane DeHaan

John Joseph Alden

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Renee Schonfeld

Common Sense Media

Sequel has simple story, leisurely pace, and mild action.

Rated: 3/5

Aug 15, 2018

Full Review

Bobby LePire

Film Threat

It is told with talent and heart that do the books justice.

Rated: B

May 11, 2018

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Synopsis

Kids spend the summer on their grandfather's private island.

Director: Anna Chi, Daniel Chuba, Mark A.Z. Dippe, Wonjae Lee
Producer: Dongxu Shao
Screenwriter: Daniel Chuba
Genre: Kids & Family, Adventure, Animation
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): May 8, 2018, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Aug 7, 2018
Runtime: 1h 22m

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