The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn review

It's a rare chance that we are offered a movie such as this. The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn is a full length "motion capture" feature film adapting the series of classic comic books from Europe. Motion capture means that the animated film is made by tracking the movements and facial expressions of actors using pins and sensors attached to their bodies. What results is a very realistic animated movie with very fluid movements from the characters.

The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn is a treasure hunting adventure that innocently starts with an antique model ship purchased by Tintin. The model is based on a sunken ship commanded by Captain Haddock's ancestor, but others are also in search of the treasure.

This is the first chapter in the Tintin series and it is a great start. We are introduced to the titular character himself, Snowy the dog, Captain Haddock, Thomson and Thompson, and other characters. The story is rich with subplots and memorable supporting characters. It's a fun ride that sometimes slows down in the middle, but eventually gets going toward the later part.

I think families would enjoy this film. It's funny and intelligent with lots of gags from the characters. Captain Haddock comes alive when drunk. Thomson and Thompson, both police officers, spend too much time quarreling to catch any criminals. Snowy is dependable and loyal while Tintin is always in search of a mystery. He is curious and always asking questions.

The villain Ivanovich Sakharine is just vile and makes a great antagonist to Tintin and Captain Haddock.

I think Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson are pretty successful with this adaptation. The storytelling is very well done and the film captures the appeal of the Tintin comics. Audiences may find that a leading lady is lacking. There is apparently no main female character here. Still, this is a fun movie that is a nice break from superhero movies. I wouldn't mind a sequel if it gets one.