Esteemed actor Ben Kingsley brings star power to this Halloween-themed escapade in which Kingsley stars as retired magician The Great Zamboni who lives alone in a creepy house with his pet jaguar named Shadow. In a magic act 10 years ago, Zamboni’s wife, who also served as his illusion assistant, mysteriously vanished and since then he has lived alone in a mansion the kids call Spooky House. A group of friends, including orphan Max (Matt Weinberg), ring the doorbell and go inside looking for a pet goat named Princess that a trio of teenage thugs, who get thrills out of stealing, lying, and bullying, stole from Max’s friend.
Max is going to an orphanage the day after Halloween but until then, he and his friends have a good time celebrating the holiday, especially when they venture inside Zamboni’s home that holds all kinds of surprises—including caskets with opening lids, scads of lighted candles, haunted couches, magic lightning bolts, walls that magically move, and much more. Zamboni, who purportedly hates kids, warms up to the group, especially Max, who he teaches some magic tricks. In a final magic show attended by Max’s orphanage and neighborhood kids, Zamboni invites Max on stage to participate in one final illusion that concludes with a surprise announcement from Zamboni.
Numerous subplots, including the escapades of the teenage thugs working for a cigarette-smoking boss lady played by Mercedes Ruehl, veer off in all directions. With an original 2002 copyright date, the film does not look dated, perhaps because of the Halloween costumes and spooky mansion furnishings. There are even a few special effects that will please modern viewers. The child and teen actors are believable and Kingsley, speaking in an American accent, is kind of weird but never threatening or mean. Silly and fun with a heartwarming conclusion, this is an entertaining Halloween fare for individual and family viewing. Bonus features include interviews with Kingsley and two other actors plus eight music videos. Aud: E, I, P. Recommended.