Search - Bionicle 2 - Legends of Metru Nui on DVD

Ursula S. from BRANFORD, CT
Reviewed on 5/3/2010...

Very nice DVD. Both of my grandsons, age 7 and 9 really enjoyed it!

Far Superior to Predecessor

10/24/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The entire LoMN experience far superseds MoL as the ultimate incarnation of the BIONICLE franchise. It is not that I hold anything against Mask of Light, it was simply uninventive- rip-offs were everywhere, drawing from everything from LotR to Alien. This prequel is a much more original endeavor.



The special effects are simply breathtaking. From a shadowy hand reaching from an ominous cloud to the incredible action sequence in the forge between Toa Lhikan and... er, the bad guys, this film is a treat for the eyes. Character animations are flawless, and their movements are realistic. Sound effects are unbelieveable, and the musical score is the best I've ever heard in a direct-to-DVD film.



As for the plot: in the original, it was a simple "you'll-only-get-it-if-you're-a-fan". Otherwise, don't even try. In this one the storyline is easier to follow. There are a few moments of confusing dialogue, but just trust me when I say I've been to fan sites and trust me, the most devoted fans are just as mixed up--it's SUPPOSED to be that way.



The main premise is that Toa Lhikan has been captured by agents of an "unrelenting shadow", and had entrusted his powers to six of the inhabitants of Metru Nui- a carver, an archivist, an astrologist, a test driver, a teacher and a forge worker- who will take his place as the guardians of Metru Nui. These Toa quest around their utopian city for the Great Disks of Power, fighting against impossible odds to claim them. Not long after completing their search (told in more detail in the BIONICLE book series), the Toa- the title the guardians are given- are betrayed by the allegedly benevolent Turaga Dume', who secures three of them in custody. The remaining Toa quest around the island, struggling against the enigmatic Dark Hunters as they attempt to find Toa Lhikan, free their comrades, and unravel a growing conspiracy.



The over-view:



Pros:



Understandable, well-paced plotline



Incredible Special Effects



Good Action Sequences



Nice Music



Cons:



Too Danged Short



Characters Bicker Constantly



Overall: 9/10"

Classic Good vs Evil Upgraded in CGI. A treat!

J. A Carty | Charlotte, NC United States | 10/17/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Bioncle 2 is a classic adventure movie for kids. It has elements of the storylines such as Lord of the Rings and Star Wars.



The story in Bioncle 2 is an old story: Good vs evil and finding the power within yourself to win. I, however, feel that the story is told well. The writers create a neat universe and use an easy to understand but someowhat advanced vocabulary. I was pleased to see words like archivist brought into a movie that appears to be guaged around 7-12. There is even a little bit of slapstick humor.



Of additional note, the movie does address "The Great Spirt" quite often and I think those who are interested in having movies of a religious nature might find it interesting to watch this movie with their children and discuss the themes: good vs evil, finding yourself, faith and altruism.



The graphics, music and sound effects are well used. There is cartoon violence but not much different from what would be found in Harry Potter and/or Power Rangers. I do think very young children might find the last 15 minutes a bit scary. I would advise if there were scared by Jurassic Park to be careful with having them view this movie, especially alone.



The family could sit down and watch this movie together. While it is predictable for adults, I think it is short enough for ages about 7-12 (or mature 6 year old) to enjoy it like they would afternoon cartoons."

Great Graphics...Just Like a Video Game

P. B Rubalcaba | Redlands, CA USA | 10/19/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I had my secretary's son (he's 10), watch this film and then he sent me a written review via e-mail. He gave it an A+. The graphics are "awesome" and it made him feel as though he was playing a game with "advanced graphics on my PS2 (Playstation 2)." It's a film that you will want to watch over and over again...plenty of action "right around the corner." "As soon as something happens, something really unexpected happens next." It's a movie that will keep you guessing and thinking. Buy it! You, and the youngsters in the family, will be thoroughly entertained."