Magic in the Water (1995)

Too much of everything

Memorable, crazy movie

Excellent but underrated film

This is a dark and sometimes deeply uncomfortable drama

MAGIC IN THE WATER is par for the course for an American kid's fantasy film. It features a couple of bratty children and their humble father who become involved with a mysterious lake said to be inhabited by an ancient creature. The usual gamut of stereotyped characters are involved, from the Native American shaman to the eager-to-please Japanese folk and the by rote human villains.This is neither the best nor the worst of its type, merely a humdrum outing designed for kids and kids alone. The stylistic similarities to FREE WILLY are more than obvious, but the central creation is kept off screen for the most part so it all becomes a little dull. The special effects are pretty good for the most part, though. The less-than-stellar cast includes Mark Harmon (TUAREG: THE DESERT WARRIOR) and future star Joshua Jackson (of DAWSON'S CREEK fame).

You know, I can't always pinpoint in a bad movie the precise moment that it loses me but there was in the case of 'Magic in the Water'. The scene has a little girl named Ashley who is positive that a Loc Ness-type creature lives in the lake leaves some Oreo cookies on the edge of the dock. Upon her return she discovers that the white stuff has been licked out and the rest of the cookie remain, dry as a bone. I didn't get up and leave the movie but I did suddenly have an urge to go to the can.There are half a dozen moments like that in 'Magic in the Water' an inexplicable E.T. wannabe that follows every family movie cliché like they were the sacred laws of the land. The story involves a dad who is constantly attached to his cell phone and his two kids Joshua and Ashley who move to the lake where a fabled creature named Orky is said to be living. Yes his named is Orky and when your laughter has subsided you may read further.All the standard characters are here: The busy non-believing dad (Mark Harmon), the wise old man in this case and Indian named Ben; the meanies who want to use Okry's (Orky *snicker*) lake as a chemical waste dump.'Magic in the Water' is the bi-product of two better movies: 'E.T.' and 'Free Willy' which this movie steals from at will and rather shamelessly. Oh and the Oreo Cookie company of course.

This is a feel-good film which is funny as well as moving. Mark Harmon, a radio psychologist takes his children on holiday to British Columbia. The scenery is stunning throughout. The child actors actually seemed like nice kids unlike most child actors these days. Mark Harmon copes with changing personalities very well. The children are excellent. The whole film though predictable from the start,made me smile and laugh. It's a good way to unwind at the end of the day. It was worth watching if only for the policewoman on the door step! And Orky of course, in his various forms!

I saw this on showtime this AM & I loved it! Mark Harmon is adorable in this and the children are delightful. I cant think of anything bad about this movie. Ignore any negative comments u happen to read. Any one who doesn't enjoy this movie is just too picky, cynical or thinks they are a movie critic. Its the story of a father, caught up in his work, takes his children on a trip that ends up being a magical experience for all! Great for all members of the family! I was quite taken with the scenery and where it was filmed! Beautiful! If u missed this movie the first time, don't hesitate to enjoy this movie with your family! I cant wait to purchase this movie for my family movie library! Without giving too much away, in a way, the movie reminds me of the song Puff the Magic Dragon!