After receiving a bizarre series of encrypted messages, a group of kids embark on an adventure with an alien who needs their help.
Does for E.T. what Super 8 did for Close Encounters. As lovably '80s as Reece's Pieces and pop socks.
Earth To Echo’s a sweet, well-meaning adventure with a good heart, but the plot’s so familiar you almost expect alien Echo to ask to “phone home” at any moment.
Echo is pretty cute – it looks like a robo-owl and sounds like a Furby – but his film still feels like an echo of classic Steven Spielberg material, done cheaper, not better.
Doesn't reverberate with any pathos or depth.
It is a smart, visually dynamic film, but audiences may miss Spielberg's wonderment.
A sentimental, lightweight yarn.
Worth seeing for those who haven't seen it all before.
There’s nothing here we haven’t seen before but it’s performed with charm.
Even the most easily pleased kids will be relieved when Echo finally goes home, not least as it will allow weary audiences to gratefully do the same.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
RSS feed of Cinema reviews