Inkheart (2008)
A magical fantasy adventure where words have the power to bring stories to life — and tear families apart.
Inkheart - Movie Information
- Original Title: Inkheart
- Release Year: 2008
- Directed by: Iain Softley
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Adventure, Family, Fantasy
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 46m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 11, 2008 (Switzerland - 12), December 17, 2008 (United States - PG), January 23, 2009 (Canada), December 12, 2008 (United Kingdom - PG), December 11, 2008 (Germany - 12), January 28, 2009 (France - TP), April 2, 2009 (Australia - PG), December 25, 2008 (Brazil - 10), January 30, 2009 (Mexico - B), February 20, 2009 (Italy), June 19, 2009 (Spain - 7), January 29, 2009 (South Korea)
- Alternative Titles: نقشدل (IR), 魔法天书 (CN), Ink Heart (US), Coeur d'encre (FR), Corazón de tinta (ES), Mustesydän (FI), Coração de Tinta - O Livro Mágico (BR)
- Production Companies: New Line Cinema, Internationale Filmproduktion Blackbird Erste
- Production Countries: United States of America
Inkheart - Plot
The adventures of a father and his young daughter, in their search for a long lost book that will help reunite a missing, close relative.
Inkheart - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the magic of Inkheart come to life on screen:
Every story ever written is just waiting to become real.
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Inkheart - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Iain Softley
Main Cast
- Brendan Fraser
- Sienna Guillory
- Andy Serkis
- Eliza Bennett
- Paul Bettany
- Jim Broadbent
- Helen Mirren
- Matt King
- Rafi Gavron
- Marnix Van Den Broeke
Writers
- David Lindsay-Abaire
Producers
- Cornelia Funke
- Barry Mendel
- Ileen Maisel
Inkheart - FAQs
What is Inkheart about?
Inkheart follows Mo Folchart, a man with a rare gift: when he reads aloud, characters from books literally come to life. After accidentally releasing the villain Capricorn years ago, Mo and his daughter Meggie race to find the magical book Inkheart before Capricorn can use its power to unleash chaos on the real world.
What is Mo's special power in Inkheart?
Mo, nicknamed 'Silvertongue,' can read fictional characters out of books simply by reading aloud. The catch? Every time someone comes out, someone from the real world gets pulled in to replace them. That's how Meggie's mother Resa disappeared into the pages of Inkheart years before the story begins.
Where can you stream or watch Inkheart?
Inkheart is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It's not currently on a major subscription streaming service, but picking it up as a digital rental is quick and affordable on any of those platforms.
Does Inkheart have a happy ending?
Yes, Inkheart wraps up on a warm, hopeful note. Without giving too much away, the family's long separation is resolved, and the threat posed by Capricorn is defeated. It stays true to its family-friendly tone throughout, delivering a satisfying conclusion that fans of the book and newcomers alike can enjoy.
Who are the main actors in Inkheart?
The cast is genuinely impressive. Brendan Fraser leads as Mo 'Silvertongue' Folchart, with Andy Serkis playing the menacing villain Capricorn. Paul Bettany brings depth to the conflicted Dustfinger, while Helen Mirren and Jim Broadbent add wonderful character. Eliza Bennett holds her own as Meggie alongside these seasoned performers.
Is Inkheart based on a book?
It is! Inkheart is adapted from Cornelia Funke's beloved 2003 novel of the same name, the first book in her Inkworld trilogy. Funke was so enthusiastic about the adaptation that she served as a producer on the film. The series continues with Inkspell and Inkdeath.
Is Inkheart suitable for young children?
Inkheart is rated PG, making it a solid pick for families with kids roughly 7 and up. There are some tense, scary moments — particularly involving Capricorn and his henchmen — but nothing too intense. The adventure and magical premise make it especially appealing for kids who love books and storytelling.
How was Inkheart received by critics?
Critical reception was mixed. Many praised the charming cast and imaginative premise but felt the film rushed through its source material, leaving the story feeling underdeveloped. Audiences who hadn't read the book tended to enjoy it more as a fun fantasy adventure, while fans of Funke's novel were more divided.
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