Will ‘Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn’ Capture the Adventure of Mark Twain’s Classics?

Mark Twain captured brilliantly the imagination and wonder of childhood in his books, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Having recently completed the reading the first, and soon to begin the second, my family is excited to see the film adaptation of the two novels, “Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn” in theaters this year.

Although the film’s release date has not yet been announced, a trailer was released this week to the public by the movie’s producers. If the trailer is any indication, the film, set in 1845 and filmed in Bulgaria, appears to better capture the true adventure of the books better than previous attempts, and capitalizes on the friendship of Tom and Huck, two young misfits working to find their way in the world.

More action, more drama

There is no shortage of action and drama in the writing of Mark Twain. Even though billed as children’s books, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” are full of real excitement and danger, young love, true friendship and even murder. The trailer for the film indicates that all of these elements will be brought to the screen.

There are so many great and memorable scenes from the novels packed into such a short trailer, it is difficult to tell how true the film will stay to Twain’s original vision. But there are strong indications that writer and director, Jo Kastner, has gone to some lengths to preserve the breath-taking suspense that fills the books.

Popular teen actors

Young moviegoers will likely be delighted to spot a few familiar favorites in the leading roles. Tom Sawyer is played by Joel Courtney, who is no stranger to the action adventure genre. He recently starred in “Super 8” opposite Elle Fanning.

Jake T. Austin, of Disney’s hit TV show, “Wizards of Waverly Place” will portray Huckleberry Finn, Tom’s best friend and fellow adventurer who cannot seem to conform to a tied-down conventional life.

And then there is Becky, the girl who steals Tom’s heart, played by young up-and-coming star, Katherine McNamara. She may also be quite familiar to Disney fans, as she’s held a recurring role in the popular show, “Kickin’ It” and will star in the new show, “Madison High.”

Fun for the whole family

I have high hopes for this film, as I am a big fan of classic literature. I’d never read “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” before we chose the book as one of our homeschool group’s book club selections. Afterward, I was very glad to have read it, even as an adult. There really is something for everyone in Mark Twain’s writing.

I would recommend every family read the books before heading to the theater when this film is released. They are sure to whet your appetite for the thrills and excitement you’ll see on the screen, and you’ll then know for sure whether Kastner did justice to Twain.