Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey – can they cast a big budget comedy without him? Never mind, Adam Sandler is available for hire.

This is an offbeat movie, character driven, filled with somber colors and sets. In the hands of those less skilled this might pain, yet in Lemony Snicket Serious of Unfortunate Events, it rocks. Picture three charming children torn away from a loving, nurturing home by tragedy, shuffled between foster environments and chased by an evil distant relative himself lured by the family fortune.

And wait, there’s more! There’s also excellent character acting, moments of comic genius and Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey, Jim Carrey. Basically, everyone did their job here. Oh and Jim Carrey was good, too. He was evil and in good way. That’s not easy to do.

What works about Lemony Snicket:

1)Characters – lots of variety and very believable.

2)Pacing – moves well, no weak moments.

3)Emily Browning – this actress is going places.

4)Did I mention Jim Carrey?

What needs improvement:

1)Ticket sales

Verdict: Want a different sort of movie? Theater full price, otherwise DVD.