Observers who instinctively laid credit for "Elf" at the feet of rising star Will Ferrell soon might rethink their assessment of director Jon Favreau. In the new "Zathura," Favreau again delivers that rare beast -- a family film that even childless adults can enjoy -- and does it not only without a charismatic star but also with a script carrying some iffy baggage. The film's plot, from the book by Chris Van Allsburg, is similar to that of a Van Allsburg adaptation which rubbed many viewers the wrong way: "Jumanji."

Subscribe to the Hollywood Reporter and see the entertainment industry from its best angle: the inside looking out. Complete access to real-time news and exclusive analysis that goes behind the scenes from film to television, home video to digital media.

   Subscribe now.