Nothing like Potter

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief
U/A; Fantasy
Dir: Chris Columbus
Cast: Logan Lerman, Brandonu00a0 Jackson, Alexandra Daddario, Sean Bean, Pierce Brosnan
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What's it about: Percy Jackson is often seen as the antidote to those suffering from the Harry Potter withdrawal symptoms. Now that Potter is nearing his end on celluloid, Percy aspires to step into his shadows. For those who haven't heard about the series, the books revolve around Percy (Logan) who like Harry lives with a dysfunctional family only to discover he has magical powers. Muggles and Wizards make way for Greek gods and mythical creatures. Along the five books, he keeps the world from meeting its end by battling demons and adversaries.

What's hot: Those who have read the series might find a few reasons to celebrate. Columbus manages to do justice to the material he's working with. Pierce Brosnan and Sean Bean excel in their parts. When was the last time we saw these guys in the same film?

What's not: Comparisons to Potter are so many that the film ends up looking like a demo tape Rowling would have rejected. Hogwarts makes way for Camp Half Blood, like Harry befriends Hermoine and Ron, Percy befriends Annabeth Chase and Grover Underwood who plan to assist him in the mission to find the lightning bolt of Zeus. Calling it a Potter rip-off might sound rude and cruel but it's an allegation the makers will find hard to defend. The biggest issue are the special effects that lack the edge and sharpness of today's technology. The dialogues and characters are half-baked and extremely lazy, indulging in monologues and lines that make you cringe. Lerman looks a bit old to play Percy and lacks the vulnerability the character embodies.

What to do: No substitute to the Potter series, Percy Jackson lacks either the charm or wit of the material it's sourced from.