Disney's Escape To Witch Mountain is in my opinion one of the finest of their live action outings. I grew up with it, it was one of the first films I ever saw, and will always hold a special place in my heart. It has such a buoyant sense of light hearted adventure and well staged scenes of intrigue, you can't not be transported to its world. I find myself hazily recalling it all the time, similar to the way the two intrepid young protagonists dreamily experience flashbacks to their mysterious past. Tony (Ike Eisenmann) and Tia (Kim Richards) Malone are two very different kids. Left in an orphanage with no past or parents, they don't fit in with the others. They have certain abilities: premonition, foresight, levitation, clairvoyance and more. Pretty soon greedy, selfish billionaire Aristotle Bolt (a hammy, terrifying Ray Milland) hears rumors about the two, and dispatches his main operative Mr. Deranian (Donald Pleasence) to forge adoption papers and obtain them, as well as their powers. Pleasence, an old pro, slyly plays the role to slick perfection. Tony and Tia escape from Bolt's clutches and go on the run, aided by a cranky, motor home driving old timer, played excellently by Eddie Albert. The three attempt to elude Bolt's extensive reach and find out where Tony and Tia come from (Stony Creek, Misty Valley POWER) and unlock the secret of their extraordinary powers. The heart of the movie rests with the two youngsters, giving genuine performances beyond their years, and using their active imagination to make us feel the reality of both their powers, and their plight. The special effects, although dated by today's standards, are still delightful to watch. Just do yourself a favour and steer well clear of the sequel, and the remake with Dwayne the cock Johnson, they're both just awful. The vibe of the film is pure fun, and at times gets a bit mysterious and moody, never loses that rollicking adventurous tone that trademarks Disney efforts. A gem.
