The read
It runs a compact 1h 28m.
Synopsis
The Psammead is an 'it', an ancient, ill-tempered sand-fairy with a spider-shaped body, bat-like ears, and snail-like eyes. It is grumpy but has the power to grant one wish a day, which must be made before sunset. Five siblings—Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane, and infant Hilary—encounter It and experience the highs and lows of frivolous wish-making.
Ratings
IMDb5.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes63%
234 audience votes
Key crew
- John StephensonDirector
- David SolomonsScreenplay
Cast
- Tara FitzgeraldMother
- Freddie HighmoreRobert
- Alex JenningsFather
- Jonathan BaileyCyril
- Jessica ClaridgeAnthea
- Poppy RogersJane
- Zoë WanamakerMartha
- Kenneth BranaghUncle Albert
- Suzy Eddie IzzardIt
- Duncan PrestonSergeant
- Alec MuggletonLamb
- Alexander PownallHorace
Stills
Themes
fairybased on children's bookwish fulfillment