Viewers beware — you are in for a decent Jack Black film.

“Goosebumps,” directed by Rob Letterman and starring Black and Dylan Minnette, provides an acceptable adaptation to a nostalgic favorite and shows signs of classic kid’s films.

The movie is about R.L. Stine, the writer of the Goosebumps series, and a band of teenagers, fighting every creature Stine created. 

This film tries to emulate a certain type of comedic, but horrific family film that seems dead and gone.

“Goosebumps” aspires to be something like “The Goonies,” “The Monster Squad” or “Gremlins”.

It does this by combining terrifying stakes for characters, like their deaths, and empathetic motivations with fun, perilous adventures.

The possible death to characters is important in making this film appear real. Pixar and Disney have added adult problems to kid’s movies, making it relatable to everyone watching, not just children.

The worst kind of family movies feel neutered and patronizing, and “Goosebumps” almost gets past these qualities.

The ending fails, because it seems as though Letterman and the screenwriters did not know how to end the film.

Even when this mature combination of qualities brings an ending that is slightly depressing, but satisfying, they ruin it with a quick removal of the idea.

The feel leaves a weird taste in your mouth that you barely get over.

Stars: 3 out of 5.