The Ithacan

Disney’s live-action remakes have hit a rocky point as they adapt one of its more unusual characters in “Dumbo.” Directed by Tim Burton, “Dumbo” seeks to recreate the 1941 animated classic on a larger scale, and it succeeds occasionally, but not enough to distract from its lack of pizazz.

The playful artistic direction and compelling mystery leave the audience wanting to explore more of the Baudelaire childrens’ world.

The abilities of the Peculiars are a convoluted mess of special effects: They look flashy, but they come across as cheap plot devices.