Movie review: Bedtime Stories

We had planned to take our first ski trip Sunday, but the thought of braving the below-freezing temperatures dissuaded us. Instead we took shelter at the movies. We don't go to the movie theater to see many movies. It just costs too much money. But we decided to treat ourselves to Adam Sandler's first foray into children's movies and go see Bedtime Stories. Those familiar with the SNL alum's previous movies know to expect a lot of childish humor laced with profanity and adult situations. Sandler is not known for being a child-friendly actor. But he made a break from that genre in Bedtime Stories. Sandler decided to make a movie that was appropriate for his kids while still be entertaining for the adults. And I think he did a good job. Bedtime Stories is a live-action film starring Sandler, Keri Russel, Courtney Cox and Russell Brand at his most endearing (if that is even possible), along with child actors Jonathan Morgan Heit and Laura Ann Kesling. Sandler plays the children's uncle who is charged with watching them for a week while the mother, played by Cox, is away seeking a new job. There is a great mix of poignant story line along with general silliness — which I think is essential in a children's movie. My mom, Bill, Margaret and I all enjoyed the movie. It was fun with a nice message. It doesn't talk down to its audience of children and avoids being too sappy. It's light, funny and sweet without being stupid and hokey. My only caveat is that I doubt very young children would enjoy this movie. There is some fun computer-generated scenes but it's much more subtle than a Pixar movie. I would recommend children 5 and up for this one. But I would definitely give it a thumbs up.