Sci-fi for all

In this post-“Avatar” era, “John Carter” works hard to capture viewers’ imaginations. Andrew Stanton, the director of Pixar hits “Finding Nemo” and “WALL-E,” brings his expertise in engaging an audience to his first live-action film.

Set to Michael Giacchino’s sweeping score, the film tells of Civil War veteran John Carter accidentally traveling to Mars — or Barsoom, as the natives call it — and becoming embroiled in a war for a dying planet.

Sci-fi pulp might be past its time, but “John Carter” excels in balanced storytelling, lighthearted humor and impressive special effects.

The script meanders here and there, but lavish visuals carry interest between action sequences.

Taylor Kitsch and Lynn Collins deliver solid performances, but even in secondary roles, Willem Dafoe and Bryan Cranston are scene-stealers.

Though slightly longer than necessary, “John Carter” works best in its clever tale-within-a-tale framework. Large themes address war and environmental neglect, but they are subtle, not scathing.

For moviegoers just looking for fun, “John Carter” is a good time.