IF

This was a visually stunning and whimsical movie. It had a star studded cast with Ryan Reynolds, John Krazinski and Steve Carell. In fact it could have done without a star playing the dad I thought, as this detracted from the emotional opening scene. The movie felt boring at times for the first two-thirds, despite the interesting concept of the story; I think it lacked suspenseful direction in the plot development. Ryan Reynolds had about three great funny moments, all of which are in the trailer, and it's a shame he wasn't able to bring a bit more of this well known personality into the film throughout. The last third was definitely the highlight of the movie and did get more exciting and definitely heightened the emotion of the movie.

IF had all the hallmarks of being a great family film and in the main it did not disappoint. There is humour, crazy characters and a unique and understandable plot. However, I did spend a lot of the film thinking it could have been better but not being able to put my finger on why. There are clearly moments when the jokes don't land like you might hope and some of the IF's are not given much screen time making the whole thing seem rushed. Despite this Reynolds is as watchable as ever and Cailey Fleming steals the show as Bea, a 12 year old girl just trying to find her way in life after the death of her mother. But at the core of the film is the heart of Krasinski and it seems that he is able to find that in whatever genre he turns to. There are moments that are genuinely moving in IF and if you're not wiping away a tear or two then maybe it is not one for you. All in all, a fun, family ride that, despite its faults creates a feeling of warmth and joy.

Imaginary Friend is a movie likely to appeal to kids and some adults as well. I admit the movie has an interesting concept which could have been made a bit more interesting and happening than it turned out to be.

John Krasinski teamed up with his old pal Ryan to make this family friendly movie after A Quiet Place but the movie takes quite some time to take off and mashes up what could have been a more fun and action filled fantasy adventure rather than just an emotional rollercoaster.

Some of the IFs imaginary friends, although colorful and happy, could have been used a tad more and could have made this movie more adventurous and funnier than it turned out to be.

What happens to your imaginary friend when you grow up and forget them?

That's the question 'IF' poses to us, and tries to debunk the mystery.

It's also a film that's trying very very hard to be liked and to be a modern classic that can live on forever. So it throws everything at the screen in order to attempt to achieve this.

There's elements of 'Toy Story' here, there's 'Inside Out', but because of this the plot seems to be being pulled in lots of directions in a relatively short run time.

A little girl getting over her mum's death with the help of a mysterious neighbour would have been enough. Or a girl trying to help reunite imaginary friends with their former children. Instead we get a bit too much all in one go.

This is though a nice piece of family entertainment, I do recommend it, but it is just trying to do too much for its own good.

Having read the preview in my movie magazine, the general plot reminded me of early 1990s movie classic 'Drop Dead Fred' with Rik Mayall.

But this time round, a colourful mix of childrens imaginary friends of all shapes sizes and textures seeking to reconnect for a childs affection.

Boosted by the voices to name a couple... Brad Pitt & Steve Carell.

Our eccentric leading man 'Ryan Reynolds' who leads these charming loveable characters reconnecting to their loyal companions of yester year, think Toy Story with Andy and his toys, but this time its the imaginary friends searching for someone to love them.

Director and star 'John Krasinski' playing a loving father supported by his young daughter, a movie that deals with Bereavement, how we cope and move forward, its harrowing and thoughr provoking, a light hearted movie that I think that when we watch it, we all had someone their to give us a squidge when needed.