"I never was into 'family' movies, but now with kids, I'm starting to check them out already on my own, as my kids are still too young yet. I saw this in the family section of a rental store and just finished watching. I was skeptical at first, wondering if I'd like it. But then before I knew it, I was completely drawn into the film and didn't want to stop to watch the second half tomorrow as I planned-- I had to see what came next. This was an interesting take on a great story, the acting was great, and the plot kept on moving. This was no goofy family film, but not some violent movie by any means. I'd think this would be a PG movie had it been rated, but maybe 9+ would start enjoying it more... but I always recommend pre-viewing a movie first before showing the children because a parent is the best judge for his/her child.
Right now I am glad I decided to check out family films for down the road, because it's introducing me to films like this that I would have loved to see even if I had no kids!
And... so many people in this film were gorgous yet had interesting looks. The three sons, very very hot. The mother was breathtaking, and the young blond girls were stunning. I couldn't help but mention that!
After seeing this movie on VHS from the rental store, I'm posting my order now from Amazon for the DVD. I don't care if there are no extras (which I hardly utilize anyway)-- the movie is worth the price.
UPDATE: I wanted to add that I have now viewed this on my new DVD, and the film is breathtaking. Crisp and clear, this makes me never want to see a VHS tape again after seeing the difference. Before it was the story and acting that drew me in, but now the scenery adds so much in this clearer view on the DVD. I just want to repeat, this is no cheesy family film-- buy it for yourself!
"
OH DEAR - I MUST HAVE SEEN A BETTER MOVIE THAN MOST
M. Hartmann | Milan, Michigan United States | 03/06/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the story of Robinson family shipwrecked on an island [not Mars]. I was intrigued to find out how Liam Cunningham fared in this role after watching Falling For a Dancer and Dog Soldiers. I really enjoy his acting.
His wife, two older sons and a daughter land on the island with him. He being bound for the convict island of Australia.
A younger son, Jacob, had been put on a small boat escaping the wrecking of the ship. He is not reunited with his family for 7 years.
The one son is always going against his father's decisions if he makes better sense of his own instincts. But the boys seem to work well with each other.
Oh yes, there is an involuntary drop-off of another female to confuse the issue. And daddy is hot on her trail. Well, the trail of the pirates anyway.
Then they meet a native [great body] and he helps them and also helps save Laura? And becomes a saving factor in the end.
The pirate Captian is a scoundrel and always putting the moves on Robinson's wife. He also turns Jake, the Robinson's son into a pirate.
Those pirates provide plenty of action - not necessarily good.
The rescue and resolution was all that was hoped for.
The actors were excellent - the scenery was spectacular - the story a classic - and definitely a credit to the Hallmark trademark
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - great family movie -- tons of color - [grin, lots of water]"
How Refreshing to See A Film Like This...
Carolyn Wilson | Orlando, Florida (USA) | 01/29/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I was drawn in to this movie expecting to see the standard "lost at sea" type of story and was pleasantly surprised as the plot unfolded. This family made the best of an awful situation, looked out for one another, and always relied upon their faith in God to get them through. They really "bloomed" where they were "planted". This production was so much more realistic than others and I could actually visualize myself in their situation--I was on the edge of my seat a number of times. This was very well done and such a refreshing change from the standard fare of violence, sex, and other depravity we are bombarded with on a daily basis."
Great Film!
Kara Brinkman | Chicago, IL USA | 12/02/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This movie was absolutely captivating. From the very beginning my attention was caught and lasted throughout the entire film. The whole build-up of the Jacob storyline was what really moved me. The one thing that prevented me from giving it 5 stars was how the ending seemed a bit rushed. I feel they should have explored the feelings of all members of the family a bit more. I would love for them to make a sequel to this film about Sarah, Jacob, and Earnst going back into society. But all in all, it was a truely moving movie."
Pretty good Movie
M. E. Newell | Georgia, United States | 11/20/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
""Stranded" is based on the book "The Swiss Family Robinson" by Johann David Wyss. This is a pretty good movie. I was invsioning a movie like the Disney "The Swiss Family Robinson" but this movie had more action and a better storyline. "Stranded" shows the struggle that the family had to face over the years not only from their enviroment, but from just being alone. Overall, "Stranded" is really good movie for the whole family."