The Seeker

Based on Susan Cooper’s "Dark Rising" children’s book series, "The Seeker" is a monotonous blend of limp science fiction and witchcraft. Young American foreign-exchange student Will Stanton (Alexander Ludwig) wants to enjoy Christmastime with his family in the rural English country house where they dwell for the holidays. But warrior Will’s status as the "seventh son of the seventh son" means that he must engage in some meandering time travel battles to collect a set of talismans that will prevent Dark forces from taking over the world. Director David L. Cunningham and screenwriter John Hodge ("Trainspotting") conspire with a gruelingly slow pacing to underpin nebulous special effects sequences. "The Seeker" is a children’s fantasy movie worth avoiding.

Rated PG, 94 mins. (C-) (Two Stars)