I do think the bidding war of Peter Jackson’s adaptation of The Lovely Bones is another example of Hollywood’s infatuation with “buzz” instead of substance. As a film fan though - I’m not buying into the Peter Jackson hype. Jackson is an adequate director. He obviously has a talent for helming big-budget blockbusters, but that doesn’t make him a great director. Take an objective look at King Kong. Strip away the eye candy and I think you’ll find a poor script, poorly paced editing, and poorly directed - and in some cases, cast - actors.

Since The Lovely Bones isn’t a further visual spectacular that Jackson’ has become famous for - he’ll really need to step up to the plate to prove he’s got real talent behind the lens.