Alien Adventure 3D MPAA Rating: G Entertainment: +1 1/2 Content: +4

This 3D IMAX film seems aimed at children with a series of roller coaster rides in four visually breath-taking settings. The segments are linked together by an alien spaceship searching the galaxy for a new planet. They spot a virtual reality theme park they mistake for a planet. The captain of the spaceship dispatches some of his scouts to investigate the hi-tech Adventure Planet, while he monitors them through sophisticated surveillance cameras. The scouts' first encounter is a ride called the Arctic Adventure, which propels them on a harrowing escapade through ice fields, chasing huge blocks of ice. In their next encounter, the alien scouts follow a genie summoned to rescue a princess. As she dangles in a cage over a river of molten lava, the aliens chase the genie through scary caves and tunnels at a dizzying pace, another cleverly disguised roller coaster. Less dramatic is the Kid Coaster that takes the aliens through a magical toy land. Their adventure ends with an underwater odyssey and another thrilling spectacle of imaginative creatures. The constant twists and turns, steep drops and dizzying speed of these roller coaster-type rides could make those who suffer from motion sickness uncomfortable. ALIEN ADVENTURE lasts only 35 minutes, which is long enough for youngsters five to 10 years old, and certainly long enough for parents.

While ALIEN ADVENTURE has no offensive elements, children under five could be frightened by several elements. The aliens, though harmless, are sinister looking. Also, because of the 3-D effects, the visual virtual reality of the fast turns and steep drops could upset them. The river of burning lava threatens the princess but her rescue prevents any bodily harm. In the final underwater sequence, a few mermaids are reclining with starfish strategically placed to cover their breasts. With awareness of these details, parents can evaluate ALIEN ADVENTURE based on subject matter and their children's sensitivity.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: IMAX, 3003 Exposition Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404