Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie

I'm surprised that the Walt Disney Studios didn't release this film version of their series The Wizards Of Waverly Place to the big screen first as they did with Hannah Montana. Given the special effects it probably would have been better served on the big screen.

Be that as it may, I think more than the fans of the television series would appreciate this one. When I reviewed the television series I said that the kids reminded me of the Partridge Family offspring. They still do, but in the course of the film the story is more of a Harry Potter type story.

Selena Gomez who's the pretty, but slightly rebellious middle child balks at the restrictions in general placed on her magic by her parents, but even more so when the family goes to the Caribbean for a vacation. With a really powerful wand in her hand, she says something really dumb like she wishes her mother and father had never met. So when David DeLuise and Maria Canals Barrera treat her and brothers David Henrie and Jake T. Austin. Of such wishes are Twilight episodes and It's A Wonderful Life plots spun.

The only thing to do is for the kids to find the Stone Of Dreams which can reverse any spell. But Gomez, Henrie, and Austin have other folks looking for the same Stone to cure their problems.

The cast of the show is an appealing one and the show itself might gain a few viewers with this film. But it really should have gone to the big screen first.

Out of all the recent shows from Disney Channel, "Wizards of Waverly Place" seems to be the one that it's acceptable to like and has the biggest fan-base besides "Hannah Montana". And it's well-deserved, cause "Wizards" it's a funny, entertaining and watchable show. As the popularity increased, the creators decided to give the show a movie, just as "Hannah Montana" and "Lizzie McGuire" were given their movies. But this time, "Wizards" has been given a non-theatrical one. While this movie-adaptation is a cute one, it doesn't surpass the show and neither it's the best Disney Channel flick I've seen.

But let's mention something positive first. Selena Gomez as Alex is the one who carries most of the movie. Besides being incredibly cute and charismatic, this is also perhaps the best acting I've seen from her. When she's leaves "Wizards", she should definitively get out of Disney and aim for more mature roles, cause she has a lot of potential to develop herself to a great actress.

Besides of Alex, the whole Russo family are present in this film, which is nice to see. Jerry (David DeLuise) is just as funny and charismatic as he is in the show, Teresa (Maria Canals-Barrera) is more or less the same character, while Max (Jake T. Austin) is whimsical to an lesser extent. The one who's differs himself from the series is Justin (David Henrie), who shows a more responsible and mature side of himself, which suits the character, although I prefer the goofy and dorky Justin, cause he's usually funnier that way. But he and Alex's has a great sibling chemistry in the film and their relationship are more or less the heart of the story.

Although I don't like saying it, "Wizards of Waverly Place The Movie" somehow suffers from the same problems as "Hannah Montana The Movie"; blending funny characters from a sitcom into a more serious plot. Though "Hannah Montana The Movie" turned the Hannah-concept to all that it wasn't; a sappy melodrama which turned it's back to the show's premises and continuity (Maybe Disney could've hired a director who actually had seen the show?). But while "Hannah Montana The Movie" was more or less absent of humor, "Wizards of Waverly Place The Movie" has some hilarious moments along the road and while it takes the characters to a new place, it doesn't mess with the continuity of the plot as "Hannah" did.

However, Wizards does suffers some other issues; Archie (Steve Valentine) is charismatic, but not a threatening enough as a villain. The movie is cute, but still lacks the spirit and the spunk from the TV show. Although the story is solid, it does struggle with pacing, the slow and fast-pacing moments feels quite separate. Perhaps the movie could've been more energetic and more cohesive paced if it was theatrical released? Well, there has been some rumors about the producers wanting to do a theatrically released sequel. And good is that.

Otherwise, I shan't complain anymore about "Wizards"; It is after all a cute and watchable movie. Fans of the show has already warmly embraced it and those who haven't seen the movie won't probably be disappointed. The story is solid and adventurous, with many nods to both Indiana Jones and Power Rangers. The score by Kenneth Burgomaster is cute and solidly supports the story. The special effects are quite impressive for belonging to a TV movie. And the film has some sweet, tender moments as well.

So to the conclusion; Is "Wizards of Waverly Place The Movie" worth a view? In spite of it's flaws; Ys, absolutely. It is a watchable and okay movie. But a note to Disney; Please stop making movies out of your shows.

This movie is honestly better than any other DCOM, Nickelodeon Movie or straight-to-DVD movie out there. It was written so well that (barely noticeable) flaws were forgivable. Sarcasm, and typical WOWP one-liners were inserted at just the right places that you can't help but laugh when the moment comes! Plus, the chemistry between each character was so good that you might even forget that they're just acting and that they're not actually related. O_o Even the extras made the film extra awesome!

I'm not a very easy person to please but, frankly, NOTHING in this film disappointed me because it was SO MUCH better than I expected. You probably wouldn't believe me until you saw it for yourself!

It truly is MAGIC. :)

P.S. I think the next few DCOMs should be worried. They have pretty big shoes to fill!

Embark on a supernatural and exciting adventure with the Russos, his family of apprentice sorcerers. While on vacation, Alex accidentally casts a spell that will affect his family's existence, preventing his parents' first meeting. Now, Max tries to keep his parents together, while Alex and Justin use every trick they know to find the Stone of Dreams so they can reverse the magic and save their family. You won't want to miss a single second of this action-packed, magic-packed feature.

In 2015 "I love witches and wizards, but this one I gave up on at first..." ...8 years ago... Nothing has changed... But at least this time I went all the way..Poor Selena, when Disney gets it right she is wonderful, but when she exaggerates and goes over the point, or rather, when she falls short, she really wastes time and talents, silly at all, boring too... And the effects, this one is without comments, or hobby, it's a waste of time, thank goodness what I watched it on a mini screen at work solving routine processes...

"Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie" is a TV movie based on the popular Disney Channel series. The film follows the Russo family as they travel to a tropical island in search of a magical stone that could potentially strip them of their wizardly powers.

One of the strengths of the film is its cast. Selena Gomez shines in her role as Alex Russo, bringing her character's wit and charm to life on the big screen. The supporting cast, including David Henrie and Jake T. Austin, also deliver strong performances that add depth and humor to the story.

The film's production value is also noteworthy. The tropical setting provides a beautiful backdrop for the story, and the special effects showcasing the wizardly powers of the characters are impressive and add to the overall magical tone of the movie.

The themes of the movie, which include the importance of family, the consequences of one's actions, and the power of forgiveness, are also noteworthy. The story delivers these messages in a way that is accessible and relatable to younger viewers, while also providing entertainment for older audiences.

Overall, "Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie" is a magical and entertaining adventure that will appeal to fans of the television series and newcomers alike. Its strong cast, impressive production value, and positive message make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good family-friendly movie. Whether you're a fan of wizardry or just looking for a fun and heartwarming story, this movie is sure to cast a spell on you.