"Race to Witch Mountain" is a 2009 science fiction adventure film directed by Andy Fickman. It is a reimagining of the 1975 film "Escape to Witch Mountain" and is also a part of the "Witch Mountain" franchise. The movie stars Dwayne Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, Alexander Ludwig, and Carla Gugino in lead roles. The story revolves around two siblings, Seth and Sara, who are extraterrestrial beings with special powers. They crash-land on Earth and find themselves pursued by various government agencies, as they possess certain knowledge that is highly sought after. They must race against time to reach the mysterious Witch Mountain, where they believe their spaceship can be repaired.

NYC’s best magic shops

Commemorate Harry Houdini’s birthday on Saturday 24 by frequenting one of these enchanting stores.

Stop by this massive, 13,000-square-foot store and you’ll probably see magician and store associate Tricky Henry manning the magic counter—as he puzzles patrons with card and coin tricks. Though Abracadabra is a go-to spot for costumes and novelty items, magic merchandise is a major draw. Noteworthy buys include the Gecko by Jim Rosenbaum ($70)—a popular gadget used for making objects disappear—and Andrew Mayne’s Levitator DVD ($40), which gives step-by-step instructions for defying gravity. Shelved next to a smattering of toys is The Original Tarbell Lessons in Magic ($80), a book of 60 tricks mastered by magician Harlan Tarbell in the 1920s that is still widely referenced today. Pros can invest in a classic Mismade stage box ($800) that tricks onlookers into thinking someone’s body has been sliced into several pieces, or simply rent the prop ($250) for the weekend. 19 W 21st St between Fifth and Sixth Aves (212-627-5194, abracadabrasuperstore.com)

RECOMMENDED: Best places for shopping in NYC

Fantasma
As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of magic accessories, Fantasma stocks its midtown shop with a combination of its own products and those made by other big-name magic companies, such as Trickmasters and Marvel. The fervor this company has for magic is obvious by the center display at its retail outpost—an enclosed glass case filled with a trove of Houdini’s original props, including a pair of the magician’s handcuffs and the straightjacket he famously freed himself from. While those artifacts alone keep the store abuzz with visitors, there’s much more here than nostalgic kitsch. More than 300 tricks—including making small objects disappear into a box—can be accomplished with Fantasma’s signature Legends of Magic kit ($60), while Schylling wands ($10) illuminate and play music at the touch of a button. Customers are frequently treated to demos by legendary coin magician David Roth, who gladly shows off tricks featured in his DVD, Ultimate Coin Magic ($35). Accented with hand-painted dove breakaway boxes ($200) and a cage for its unofficial mascot, Rambo the rabbit, the bright space is frequented by magician Ed Alonzo, better known to ’80s babies as Saved by the Bell’s trickster restaurateur, Max. 421 Seventh Ave at 33rd St (212-244-3633, fantasmamagic.com)

New York Costumes
Tucked away in the basement of this costume megastore is a small section dedicated to all things magical. Specializing in accoutrements best suited for beginners, the enclave hawks the latest playing cards, including a Bicycle deck embossed with steampunk designs ($10). Patrons get a kick out of Empire Magic kits that create the illusion of a needle going through a balloon ($16), and Morris Costumes coloring books which, at the wave of a hand, mysteriously go from having blank pages to ones filled with pictures ($13). For more daring tricksters, Disecto devices that will convince audiences you chopped off your hand ($70) and Theatre Effects combustible flash papers ($11) are also available. Magic fans can scoop up posters picturing Henry Kellar’s famous levitation trick ($16), or pick up a pair of crisp white magician’s gloves ($8) on the main floor. 104 Fourth Ave between 11th and 12th Sts (212-673-4546, newyorkcostumes.com)

Rogue Magic & Funshop
After several years of doing impromptu performances on street corners and selling magic tricks out of his backpack, self-taught magician Roger “Rogue” Quan unloaded his knowledge and trickery into this small storefront. Jardonnet flammable wallets ($40–$200) and a torch that transforms to a single red rose ($15) are among the pyro-themed offerings. Popular tricks, such as making a card rise from the center of its deck, go for $30. Alongside fellow tristate-area magicians, Quan hosts a magic show in the shop every Saturday (9–11pm; advance tickets $10, $12 at the door). For the same price, adults can attend the monthly Freaky Friday (9pm, call for schedule) performance, which combines geek magic, such as shoving nails up one’s nose, with racy jokes. 85-08 Queens Blvd at Grand Ave, Elmhurst, Queens (718-505-0316)

Tannen’s Magic
Open since 1925, this Herald Square haunt gets bragging rights for being the city’s oldest magic emporium. Instead of the gaudy lights and neon signage you’d expect from a place known for over-the-top trickery, you’ll encounter a dimly lit shop situated in an unassuming office building. Playing cards ($3–$100), didactic DVD sets ($15–$190) and accessories ($25–$400) abound at Tannen’s, where tricks are performed and sold daily. For $140, staffers will teach budding magicians the F1 Nitro trick, in which a card is made to vanish from its deck and suddenly appear in a wallet. Equally thrilling is the ParaPad ($95)—a pocket-sized notebook that helps its owner read minds. Professional magicians like Dani Daortiz often host lectures ($35) and workshops ($100), while novices frequently snatch up Michael Ammar’s Easy to Master Card Miracles DVD ($35). Notable alums of Tannen’s weeklong summer camp ($1,295), held each year outside Philadelphia, include actor Adrien Brody and master illusionist David Blaine. 45 W 34th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves, suite 608 (212-929-4500, tannens.com)

Related

Don't Blink Magic Shop

Magick Balay will be performing the greatest trick of his lifetime— opening "Don't Blink", a new brick and mortar magic shop located at 336 West 37th Street, Suite 960, right in Midtown Manhattan, NYC. Balay has become known internationally as one of the best close-up magic demonstrators in the business. With over three decades of experience, Magick Balay has been a star performer on the SYFY and Discovery channel in the well reviewed "Close Up Kings" show. “This is truly a dream come true— I have been wanting to open my own shop for as long as I can remember. I could not be more excited to educate the next generation of magicians and all the patrons who visit the shop” states Balay.

They must race against time to reach the mysterious Witch Mountain, where they believe their spaceship can be repaired. The film combines elements of action, adventure, and science fiction to create an exciting and thrilling narrative. Along their journey, Seth and Sara encounter Jack Bruno, a cab driver who becomes their unlikely ally.

Our Story

Magick Balay Announces Opening of New Magic Shop in NYC. " Don't Blink " is open NOW! The shop will carry the latest and best magic effects curated by Magick for their true integrity to the magicians of every skill level.

They face numerous obstacles and dangers as they navigate through a world they are unfamiliar with, using their extraordinary abilities to overcome challenges. "Race to Witch Mountain" explores themes of family, friendship, trust, and the discovery of one's true identity. The movie also touches upon the idea of acceptance and embracing differences, as the siblings are unique and different from the human characters they encounter. The visual effects in the film are stunning, helping to bring the fantastical elements of the story to life. The action sequences are well-executed, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats throughout the film. The performances of the cast, particularly Dwayne Johnson as Jack Bruno, are also commendable, adding depth and heart to the characters. Overall, "Race to Witch Mountain" is an entertaining and enjoyable film that combines adventure, science fiction, and heartwarming moments. It successfully carries on the legacy of the "Witch Mountain" franchise while putting a fresh spin on the story for a new generation. Whether you are a fan of the original film or new to the series, "Race to Witch Mountain" promises an exciting and engaging cinematic experience..

Reviews for "Race to Witch Mountain and the Evolution of Family Adventure Films"

1. Emily - 2 out of 5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Race to Witch Mountain Original." The storyline felt weak and predictable, with no real surprises or twists. The characters also lacked depth and development, making it difficult to feel invested in their journey. The action scenes were the only saving grace, but even those felt overdone and cliché. Overall, I found this film to be underwhelming and wouldn't recommend it to others.

2. James - 1 out of 5 stars - "Race to Witch Mountain Original" was a complete waste of time. The plot was nonsensical and poorly executed, leaving me confused and frustrated throughout the entire movie. The dialogue was cringe-worthy, filled with cheesy one-liners and flat attempts at humor. The performances were lackluster, making it hard to connect with any of the characters. I regret watching this film and would strongly advise others to avoid it.

3. Sarah - 2.5 out of 5 stars - I had high hopes for "Race to Witch Mountain Original" but was ultimately let down. The story had potential, but the execution fell flat. The pacing was uneven, with slow and dragging moments followed by rushed and chaotic scenes. The special effects were decent, but they couldn't save the lack of substance in the script. Overall, it was a forgettable experience that failed to deliver on its promises of excitement and adventure.

4. Michael - 2 out of 5 stars - "Race to Witch Mountain Original" felt like a missed opportunity. The concept had potential, but the execution left much to be desired. The film lacked a cohesive narrative, resulting in a disjointed and confusing storyline. The characters were underdeveloped and lacked depth, making it difficult to care about their journey. The action sequences were repetitive and failed to create any real sense of tension or excitement. Overall, it was a forgettable and mediocre film that I wouldn't recommend to others.

The Making of Race to Witch Mountain: From Book to Big Screen