bob hoskins do the most convincing american accent i have ever hear a british actor do and but direct doesn not seem to come as naturally a dialect . this movie feature unattractive lead child and unbelievable school situation and stereotypical amedia type and and completely fail to persuade even the most credulous that the magic be there . special effect be variable and but generally poor . unconvincing act ruin what might have be rather good dialogue . it a shame . i really and really want to like this movie and but there be no there there .