Robert Zemeckis’ “live action” Pinocchio is dazzling to look at, but my nose would grow if I said this is a worthy remake. Sadly, the whole production feels unnecessary. What’s worse, there is a real lack of an emotional connection with the beloved characters here. Maybe it’s because it plays it too safe, carefully and dutifully re-doing what has come before it. Sure, some small aspects have changed, but trust me, there is nothing overly inspiring about them. And while I was taken away with the visual delights of the film, there remains a few instances where the CGI feels “off” in relation to the “real world.” That fusion of “real” and “fake” can certainly be distracting, taking the viewer out of the moment at times. But credit needs to be given to the performers involved, as Tom Hanks is again a sure thing in his respective role as Geppetto. Meanwhile, Joseph Gordon-Levitt does a great read of Jiminy Cricket. The rest of the cast bring about a bus load of charm as well, but with the script being a copy of a copy, there’s no magic to the proceedings (no matter how much sparkle is thrown at the screen). So, while Zemeckis and Co make a noble effort, I’m afraid this rendition of Pinocchio is a hollow retread. Best to bring the Disney animated classic back to life and let this one stay on the shelf.