If the family-oriented fantasy City of Ember wasn't based on the 2003 novel by Jeanne Duprau, you'd swear it had been inspired by a theme-park attraction. Adapted by screenwriter Caroline Thompson (whose previous films include Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas), the movie is an exceedingly slight tale whose entire second half consists primarily of special effects and wonderful set designs.

There's shockingly little plot in this tale of the denizens of the titular city, which is deep beneath the Earth. The entire town revolves around the giant generator that keeps the electricity flowing, because without it, Ember would be plunged into an eternal darkness.

Focusing on two young teens (Harry Treadaway and Saoirse Ronan) who discover there may be life -- and light -- beyond the Ember town limits, the movie follows their scavenger hunt of clues that may lead to a way back to the Earth's surface -- and its accompanying sunlight. The grown-ups in the film are played by famous names, including Bill Murray as the corrupt mayor, Tim Robbins as the boy's father and Mary Kay Place as a kindly neighbor.

Murray exudes his usual brand of wiseass comedy (albeit a toned-down, kiddie-friendly version), but most of the other adult actors have little to do in the film. Director Gil Kenan has paid careful attention to the nooks and crannies of his imaginary city, but he hasn't given much thought to his characters. No one aside from Murray registers, least of all the two young protagonists, who have all the personality and character traits of the extras they pass on the street. Martin Landau has a small role as a longtime Ember local with a penchant for constantly falling asleep. He has the right idea.

Cast: Harry Treadaway, Saoirse Ronan, Bill Murray, Tim Robbins, Toby Jones, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Mary Kay Place, Martin Landau.

Director: Gil Kenan.

Screenwriter: Caroline Thompson. Based on the novel by Jeanne Duprau.

Producers: Gary Goetzman, Tom Hanks.

A 20th Century Fox release. Running time: 95 minutes. Scary monsters. Playing at area theaters.

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