With strong echoes of his own SPYkids 3-D: Game Over, this family adventure from director Robert Rodriguez is all about the power of dreams, specifically those of a meek, bullied boy named Max (Cayden Boyd). Facing school feuds and bickering parents, Max retreats into his imagination only to discover that the superheroes of his fantasies (the Sharkboy and Lavagirl of the title) have become real and need his help when their planet is threatened. "Virtual" is the keyword here, as most of the film takes place in a CGI world of Max's imaginings, with rivers of milk, giant cookies and an actual brainstorm. The moral is a decent if well-worn one, and the movie certainly has upbeat energy. But, for some, this will be a headache-inducing ride, with gaudy, brash art direction and broad, uneven performances. The very young may enjoy seeing objects zoom toward them at top speed, but adults should probably avoid donning those red and green glasses.

Everyone always knew that Max had a wild imagination, but no one believed that his wildest creations -- a boy raised by watchful great white sharks and a girl with the force of a volcano -- were real. Now, these two pint-sized action masters will show Max that even an ordinary kid has what it takes to be extraordinary.