Back to Gaya (2004, GBR/GER/SPA) C-101m. SCOPE *** D: Lenard Fritz Krawinkel, Holger Tappe. Starring (the voices of) Patrick Stewart, Emily Watson, Glenn Wrage, Alan Marriott, Bob Saker. Computer-animated fantasy adventure set in the land of the Gayans (pint-sized creatures with large ears), where life depends on a crystal that is stolen by a villain from the real world. A group of Gayans is transported there as well, and they must fend for themselves in a huge city of humans. Exciting, atmospheric adventure doesn't give you much time to breathe; when it does, its lack of a consistent plot slows it down a lot. Still, a great roller-coaster ride for kids. Films like this deserve more attention. Excellent score by Michael Kamen, who died of a heart attack before film's premiere International version is shorter by a few minutes. Also known as THE SNURKS, and BOO, ZINO & THE SNURKS.


© Ron Altman