There are three Arthur and the Invisibles movies, constituting a complete trilogy based on the popular children’s book series by Luc Besson. While rumors of further installments occasionally surface, only these three films have been officially produced and released.
The World of Arthur and the Invisibles: A Deep Dive
Luc Besson’s Arthur and the Invisibles captured the imagination of audiences worldwide with its innovative blend of live-action and CGI animation. The series follows the adventures of Arthur, a young boy who discovers a hidden world of tiny beings called Minimoys living in his grandmother’s backyard. These movies, filled with adventure, fantasy, and a touch of environmentalism, have cemented their place in children’s cinematic history.
The Three Films: A Chronological Overview
The core of the Arthurian cinematic experience lies in the three films that comprise the trilogy:
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Arthur and the Invisibles (2006): This first film introduces Arthur and his initial journey into the Minimoy world. He must find his grandfather’s hidden treasure to save his family’s home and discovers the magic of the Minimoys along the way.
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Arthur and the Revenge of Maltazard (2009): In this sequel, Arthur returns to the Minimoy world to rescue Princess Selenia and defeat the evil Maltazard, who has escaped to the human world.
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Arthur 3: The War of the Two Worlds (2010): The final installment sees Maltazard continuing his reign of terror in the human world, forcing Arthur to confront him head-on and save both the human and Minimoy realms.
FAQs: Answering Your Burning Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Arthur and the Invisibles movies, providing further insight into the production, characters, and legacy of this beloved series.
What is the correct viewing order for the Arthur and the Invisibles movies?
The correct viewing order is chronological, based on the release dates:
- Arthur and the Invisibles (2006)
- Arthur and the Revenge of Maltazard (2009)
- Arthur 3: The War of the Two Worlds (2010)
Who directed the Arthur and the Invisibles movies?
All three Arthur and the Invisibles movies were directed by Luc Besson, the acclaimed French filmmaker known for his visually stunning and action-packed films. He also wrote the original books that the movies are based on.
Are the Arthur and the Invisibles movies based on books?
Yes, the movies are based on the Arthur and the Minimoys book series written by Luc Besson. The first film is primarily based on the first two books in the series.
Who are the main voice actors in the English versions of the films?
The English voice cast features a star-studded lineup, including:
- Freddie Highmore as Arthur
- Mia Farrow as Granny
- Penny Balfour as Rosie
- Madonna as Princess Selenia
- Jimmy Fallon as Prince Betameche
- David Bowie as Emperor Sifrat
- Iggy Pop as Maltazard
What is the average runtime of each Arthur and the Invisibles movie?
The runtimes of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies vary slightly, but they generally fall within the range of 90 to 100 minutes:
- Arthur and the Invisibles: Approximately 103 minutes
- Arthur and the Revenge of Maltazard: Approximately 93 minutes
- Arthur 3: The War of the Two Worlds: Approximately 101 minutes
Where can I watch the Arthur and the Invisibles movies online?
Availability of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies on streaming platforms varies by region and is subject to change. You can typically find them on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and various rental or purchase services. Always check the streaming options available in your country.
What age group are the Arthur and the Invisibles movies suitable for?
The Arthur and the Invisibles movies are generally suitable for children aged 7 and up. While the films contain elements of fantasy and adventure, some scenes may be slightly intense or frightening for younger viewers. Parental guidance is recommended.
Are there any special editions or extended cuts of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies?
To date, there are no widely available special editions or extended cuts of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies. The versions released in theaters and on home video are typically the standard cuts.
Were the Arthur and the Invisibles movies commercially successful?
The commercial success of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies was mixed. While the first film performed well at the box office, the subsequent sequels did not reach the same level of success. However, they have maintained a strong following on home video and streaming platforms.
What are some common criticisms of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies?
Some common criticisms of the Arthur and the Invisibles movies include:
- Uneven pacing: Some viewers found the pacing to be inconsistent, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others dragged on.
- Dialogue: The dialogue has been criticized as being clunky or unnatural in certain parts.
- Inconsistent tone: The films occasionally struggle to balance the lighthearted adventure with darker, more serious themes.
Will there be any more Arthur and the Invisibles movies in the future?
As of now, there are no officially announced plans for any further Arthur and the Invisibles movies. While Luc Besson has not completely ruled out the possibility of revisiting the franchise, there are currently no concrete projects in development. The existing trilogy provides a complete narrative arc.
What makes the Arthur and the Invisibles movies unique?
The Arthur and the Invisibles movies stand out for their:
- Innovative blend of live-action and CGI animation: This combination creates a visually stunning and immersive world.
- Imaginative storyline: The story of Arthur and his adventures in the Minimoy world is full of fantasy, adventure, and environmental themes.
- Strong voice cast: The English versions feature a talented ensemble of voice actors who bring the characters to life.
- Message of environmentalism and bravery: The films subtly promote environmental awareness and encourage viewers to stand up for what they believe in.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
The Arthur and the Invisibles trilogy remains a fascinating example of children’s cinema that blends live-action and animation to create a vibrant and engaging world. While only three films were produced, the story of Arthur’s adventures in the Minimoy realm continues to capture the imaginations of audiences young and old. The absence of any current plans for additional installments solidifies the trilogy as a complete and satisfying chapter in the larger Arthurian narrative. The innovative visuals, coupled with themes of bravery and environmentalism, ensure that the Arthur and the Invisibles movies will be remembered as a unique and entertaining contribution to the world of children’s fantasy films.