Three star

FOR anyone brought up to believe that Lassie films were the ultimate in family entertainment, this sort of film is a dream.

It's good, clean fun, with touches of Back To The Future, Star Trek and Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

It may lack a little in the sophistication stakes for today's teenager but for younger children and weary, undemanding adults, it's a pleasant way of spending 90 minutes.

Jesse Bradford (Bring It On and Swimfan) stars as Zak, the teenage son of a science professor who finds an extraordinary wristwatch which can stop time in its tracks.

He first uses his powers to impress Francesca (Paula Garces), the new girl at school, and to pull a few comical stunts - cue some rather smart special effects.

It all turns ugly, however, when a wicked and power-crazed gang decide they want the device for themselves.

Zak and Francesca become involved in the thrills and spills of a chase and a race against time.

After Lassie, it's all quite exciting and I did find myself willing Zak to up his body's molecular speed. (You'll just have to watch!)

SCC