In a word WOW!. Any movie that an audience applauds DURING the movie has to be good. Same goes for a line in the MEN's bathroom afterwards. I thought it was great, it could have ben longer, it could have been shorter, either way, it worked. Story driven, great script, great performances from all involved, and yes, Heath Ledger should get an Oscar Nomination.
Journey to the Center of the Earth: My wife and I went to see it on the recommendation of a co-worker, we were not expecting an Oscar worthy movie. However, we got what we were expecting, a fun filled adventure story that works for adults and kids alike. I laughed, my wife screamed at one point when a toothy fish leapt out of the screen. I walked out feeling refreshed, even after a day at work. I hope that make a sequel. To sum up, it was what adventure movies used to be, exciting, no blood, no sex, just “shiver me timbers” good.
Since the last Crusade in 1989 other franchises have copied the "Indy method", the movie has some plot flaws, but none which spoiled the movie. Hey, if we had German's in Egypt in the mid 1930’s, why not Commie’s at area 51 in the 1950's. The plot moved forward at a fast clip, after 15 minutes I whispered to my wife, "He's still got it" That summed up the movie, you suspend your disbelief at things that really are over the top, and just sit back and enjoy the ride, by the time it was over, I wanted more. No Oscar nominations, just really good fun. Let's hope Indy returns again.