There have been many Hollywood films about the legend of Loch Ness over the years, but few have been as charming as The Water Horse - Legend of the Deep. The character of Young Angus is played by newcomer child actor Alex Etel, who many will recognize from the huge BBC TV hit “Cranford.”
This is adapted from the famous book ‘The Water Horse’ by Dick King-Smith. It bases the story in 1930’s Scotland against the backdrop of war, with the discovery of an egg by a young boy and his sister on a beach. The egg hatches and they raise the surprising offspring in their workshop and then the bath, until it rapidly outgrows both and has to be moved to the loch.
The movie actually focuses far more on the younger brother, making it his discovery and it explores his need for something to love as his own with his father away at war. The casting is excellent and includes some first rate British actors with Brian Cox, Ben Chaplin (a longtime Brit’ Gal hottie!), Emily Watson and David Morrissey. This movie owes alot to CGI special effects and as a result ‘Nessie’ known as Crusoe in this version is very loveable, cute and believable. The locations in Scotland are also stunning and will be a wonderful boost for the Scottish Tourist Board.
For this ACT staff member it was nice to watch a movie that had no violence, bloodshed, language, bad acting or inane humour. It is a film I feel confident in receommending to any aged ACT student. So if you enjoy watching a thoroughly charming bit of well acted escapism, or have children of any age, I highly recommend this movie.
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