Movie spotlight
Time at the Top
14-year old Susan Shawson travels back in time in her building's elevator. As altered by a retired physicist living in her building, it transports her from Philadelphia of 1998 back to the same place in 1881. There she meets Victoria Walker, a girl her own age in need of assistance with her own family problems. Gradually discovering the power of her time machine, Susan, Victoria, and her young brother Robert travel back and forth in time and succeed in changing both the past and the future.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young boy named Billy discovers a magical staircase in his grandmother's attic that can transport him back in time. He uses this ability to prevent a tragedy that befell his family many years ago, leading to unexpected consequences and a journey of self-discovery.
Critical Reception
Time at the Top received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding its plot convoluted and its special effects dated. However, some family audiences appreciated its ambitious themes and adventurous spirit.
What Reviewers Say
A confusing narrative that struggles to maintain coherence.
Relies heavily on a fantastical premise but fails to fully deliver on its potential.
The performances are serviceable but cannot overcome the script's shortcomings.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available suggest a divided opinion, with some finding it an enjoyable, albeit flawed, family fantasy, while others found it too predictable and poorly executed.
Fun Fact
The film was based on the children's book of the same name by E.L. Konigsburg, though it deviated significantly from the source material.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources