Film review: 'Rise of the Guardians' fails to be a holiday hit

"Rise of the Guardians" is a humdrum animated film that I'm sure is supposed to be the start of a hot new franchise. The premise is that legendary children's characters, often believed to be imaginary, are in fact real and moonlight as superheroes. I can see where that's a good idea on paper and I won't deny that it's easily marketable. But the film lacks good ideas beyond this most basic stage and quickly becomes dull and joyless, at least for adults who reluctantly see it with their kids.

By BOB GARVER

November 26, 2012