This deliciously dark kids’ movie will spark a whole new generation of pre-teen goths-in-training, who will crib wardrobe and decorative notes from it for years. And for that I’m delighted. A Series of Unfortunate Events fakes us out with a chipper and bright intro of happy, animated elves, before suggesting that anyone looking for that kind of sugary entertainment try theater number two. What unfolds is a sinister tale in the spirit of Roald Dahl. Like in his James and the Giant Peach, the parents die and leave their offspring to face a harsh, unkind world. In this case most of the nastiness is due to a mysterious Count Olaf, played to full tilt by Jim Carrey. It’s the kind of role Carrey was born for, lots of grand posturing and flamboyant double-takes. Count Olaf becomes a predatory guardian to three young orphans, who must pool their talents to thwart his vile attempts to claim their inheritance. The events are as comical as you’d expect from Carrey, snickering and winking to the audience after giving the kids a dramatic scare, but they are also just as unfortunate. Olaf’s blow to the face of a young boy brought gasps from people at the show I attended. And the literal cliffhangers of children in peril thrilled both kids and adults. Anyone who isn’t convinced of Edward Gorey’s influence in the wryly macabre story and visual design should stay through the end credits, where the animated titles drip with his drearily drawn wit.

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