A new version of the animated Disney film, The Jungle Book, in theaters now,  brings to life the original world filled with exotic plants and animals and no shortage of adventure.

The characters, featuring a “man cub” and incredibly realistic animated jungle animals, find themselves on a quest to protect the young boy Mowgli from the vicious tiger Shere Khan. Despite the childish aspects of the original, this remake falls barely short of a horror movie, earning it a rating of PG. Filled with twists and turns in every scene, it will keep you on the edge of your seat for the entire two hours.

Besides a few slight plot deviations, the film is very similar to its 1967 version, including all the characters and most of the songs from the original. It will entertain both those who have and have not seen the previous film.

The film crew did an amazing job with the graphics. Most of the movie is created by digital designs, including the jungle scenery and the animals that Mowgli befriends along the way. It’s hard to tell what’s real and what’s simply animated, because the effects are so realistic.

The producers were also very clever in choosing the soundtrack. Along with the traditional songs, it includes new instrumentals and a variety of sound effects.These aspects complemented the movie well, enhancing the mood of each scene. The more chilling parts were accompanied by dark, thundering music with heavy beats, while the lighthearted scenes contained music highlighted by flute-like instruments and sounds.

Changes in lighting went right along with the sonic changes. The emotionally dark moments were shrouded in equally dismal shadows, and the victorious celebrations were flooded with pale sunlight.

All of the actors, including those who voiced the animated animals, were perfectly suited for their roles, and brought out their personalities in unique and subtle ways.

I saw the movie in 3-D which enhanced the already awe-inducing aspects of the film.

Overall, it was very impressive. I would call it a must see for families with older kids, but not for the younger ones because it does have some scary moments. However, it was extremely well done and thought out, and I applaud the directors of the film.