'Chronicle' of a fine family film

After enduring "The Golden Compass" I wasn't clamoring for another family-centric fantasty.

"The Spiderwick Chronicles'" enthralling prologue chased away my skepticism.

The film, which opens today, should be welcomed by movie goers of all ages. Check out my review in The Washington Times for just why the film won me over in a modest but measurable way.

"Chronicles" lacks star power -- sorry, David Strathairn won't be on the cover of Teen People anytime soon -- but it still deserves some box office love this weekend.

(Photo: Freddie Highmore, Sarah Bolger and Freddie Highmore - again - check out a spooky sound in "The Spiderwick Chronicles")