Andrew Davis (1) (1946–)

a solid 1990s classic, some parts of it feel aged today but it's still a definite solid flick as a innocent man tries to figure out why he was framed while on the run from the cops. Highly recommended if you're interested in flicks like this.

I think this fantastic adaptation of the movie is helped by the fact that Sachar wrote the screenplay. Who better to know which elements of his book needed to be translated to the big screen and how! The translation to the big screen is helped by the book's cinematic read. As for the movie itself, the acting and pacing are excellent; the near-constant action and mystery makes this movie constantly entertaining. The issues of bullying and social justice and how the characters deal with these show more make this an important movie for children to see. There is a some violence, so only children 9 and up should watch this. The little bit of magic and diverse cast also makes this a great movie great for boys and girls. A good idea is to screen the movie after a kid or class has read the book and discuss how well the various elements translate to the big screen or what differences there are between the two. show less

2026 movie #85. 1989. A Green Beret (Hackman), is blamed for a security break at a NATO base in West Berlin. Sent home, he's to escort a US soldier (Jones) home for a Court Marshal. When the package escapes, Hackman realizes he's enmeshed in a giant conspiracy. Pretty good.

Andrew Davis’ adaptation of Louis Sachar’s Holes is about as true to the book as one can expect. The plot gets juggled a little, but remains the same overall and is just as easy to follow. A comic overtone washes out the dreariness of Camp Greenlake, leaving things somewhat light until late in the film. However, Davis leaves many observations that are present in Stanley’s narrative to inserted dialog which can be a bit cheesy at times. Although the style is a bit lighter than the show more original, many of the same themes of loyalty, destiny, and friendship persist, from the ominous beginning to the happily-ever-after ending. The adaptation to film allows for a visual connection to Sachar’s character and setting descriptions, also. Recommended for both school and library movie collections. show less