Holes

"A scrupulously faithful adaptation of the successful young adult novel by Louis Sachar, "Holes" will no doubt speak clearly to its intended early teen audience. The book about a group of wayward boys doing time at a most peculiar detention camp was a publishing phenomena that shot right past adults' radar. Disney's film version looks poised to become a hit without the patronage of many people beyond voting age."

"The intention is a good one, but the blending of disparate ingredients under Andrew Davis' direction is often jarring."

"One of the few recent movies I have seen that plunged me into that rare, giddy state of pleasurable confusion, of not knowing what would happen next, which I associate with the reading and moviegoing experiences of my own childhood."

"I walked in expecting a movie for thirteensomethings, and walked out feeling challenged and satisfied."

"As a result, what should have been a simple set-up turns into a four-course meal of plot exposition that's likely to send some kids bolting for the nearest exit. Yet, for those who can sit still, Holes has enough wit and wisdom to be an entertaining alternative to the effects-heavy world of Harry Potter's Hogwarts."

"Kids' fare with a brain - a haunting detective story with a warm heart."