Alaska MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: +2

In ALASKA, Castle Rock Entertainment has come up with an exciting, action-packed wilderness adventure which will thrill and intrigue young and old alike. It starts with spectacular aerial views of majestic snow-covered Alaskan mountains as seen by Jake Barnes (Dirk Benedict), a pilot for an air service. Jake is making his way back to his home base in Quincy, Alaska, where he's greeted by his 13-year-old daughter, Jessie (Thora Birch). But his 15-year-old son Sean (Vincent Kartheiser) spends much of his time complaining about having to live in Alaska. However, Sean rises to the occasion when, on another trip, his dad crashes into a rocky mountain side in a storm. Without notifying anyone, Sean and Jessie start out on a long, arduous trek to rescue their dad. This takes them across rugged, snowy terrain, raging mountain streams and placid lake ways, and they have a suspenseful climb down a rocky mountain side. Along the way a young polar bear befriends and follows them, with two vicious, greedy men (Charlton Heston and Duncan Fraser) on their trail trying to capture the valuable young bear. The action and excitement never let up and ALASKA turns out to be one of the best wilderness adventures produced in recent years.

Jake's wife has recently died and he is trying to be a good father after moving his family to Quincy. He's also doing his best to deal with Sean's rebellion. So it's very encouraging when Sean and Jessie don't hesitate to risk their lives to save their dad, and struggle doggedly through very dangerous and grueling obstacles to find him. The message of protecting wildlife and the environment comes through clearly, and the local government officials are portrayed favorably. No sexual situations or nudity are included, and only one slightly suggestive remark is made by Sean. Undoubtedly to avoid a G rating, a number of mild crude words are spoken by Sean and some of the men, and several exclamatory profanities are used in crisis situations. One of the Alaskan Indians practices spirit worship, but it is portrayed neutrally. Overall, ALASKA is a reasonably wholesome film suitable for children about 8 years of age and older.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Columbia Pictures, 10202 Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232