Disney Channel’s Original Movies have been one of the main foundations of their programming lineup since the 1990’s, and it’s easy to see why. Titles like Halloweentown, High School Musical, and Descendants have become smash hits and staples for entire generations. Though the Disney Channel has been releasing film content since the 1980’s, their “Original Movies”  started in 1997 with the OG DCOM, Under Wraps. It was an indisputable success for Disney, and has since gained a considerable following of fans who include it in their annual Halloween movie marathon rotation. 

Naturally, fans rejoiced when Disney announced they would be releasing a remake, stating that they would be taking it a more comedic route this time around. The new iteration, directed and written by Alex Zamm (R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour), is indeed lighter and more joyful in tone, aiming for more laughs than chills.

Tween friends Marshall (Malachi Barton), Gilbert (Christian J. Simon), and Amy (Sophia Hammons) are all attempting to adjust to current life struggles. Marshall and Amy are dealing with changing family dynamics, while Gilbert is trying to work through overcoming various fears and phobias. While the film makes a point to introduce these plot points early on, it’s also clear these three are a lively, adventurous bunch.

It’s those adventurous tendencies that lead them to exploring the home of Marshall’s neighbor, Mr. Kubot, after they notice him bringing in unusual looking crates to his basement. There’s some serious Goonies vibes as the three traverse the room full of unique looking antiquities. In the process, they inadvertently open a sarcophagus containing an ancient mummy (Phil Wright), and subsequently re-awaken him. 

After their initial shock, they’re surprised to discover this mummy is much more gentle giant than frightening monster. This paves the way for a multitude of comedic scenes that highlight the bumbling and curious nature of the mummy, who is quickly nicknamed Harold, after Marshall’s Grandfather. Not only are the trio tasked with trying to reign Harold in and keep him hidden from everyone around them, but also with investigating the mystery surrounding him, all while attempting to stay one step ahead of Kubot and his henchmen. 

The kids soon uncover the legend and history behind Harold, thanks in part to a few well-placed plot devices. If they can get him back to his coffin before Midnight on Halloween, he’ll be able to rest again for all eternity with his true love, but if they miss the deadline, he’ll be turned to dust. 

It’s a simple enough plot, but Under Wraps is peppered with adequate hijinks and amusing moments to keep it feeling fresh. The first half of the film does feel slightly rushed, breezing almost too quickly through the introduction and early moments of Harold and the kids just to get to the climax. It could have served well to ease back on the brakes enough to really soak in the scenes between the four of them and savor the camaraderie a little more. 

The chemistry between the three young actors is charming and believable. Each character is sculpted enough to stand out from one another, and it plays well with their strengths and weaknesses to lend to the overall plot. Christian J. Simon in particular exhibits comedic timing well beyond his years, reminiscent of a young Chris Rock.

The true standout, though, is Wright’s portrayal as Harold. It’s a difficult feat to carry a movie without ever uttering one line of real dialogue, and instead having to rely solely on physicality and noise. His performance offers up big laughs as he stumbles and grunts his way through learning about modern day technology with a Chewbacca-like quality. His physical comedy is delightful and impressive, as he’s able to excel at both stiff armed shuffling and expert dance moves. 

While some of the overall plot points feel slightly heavy handed, and at times even unnecessary, tonally this is an engaging and enchanting addition to the DCOM lineup. Harold is more loveable than he is scary, so the thrills are small enough in scale that young children can watch with ease. Moreso, the chief message and satire mean that it can be just as enjoyable to older kids. There’s also a few cheeky, subtle horror film Easter Eggs that adults should appreciate as well. 

As a remake, this version stands out enough as a joyful, entertaining Halloween treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. 

Under Wraps premiers on the Disney Channel on Friday, October 1st and on Disney Plus on Friday, October 8th. 

7 out of 10