Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008)

Trevor (played by Brendan Fraser), a geology professor at a university, delivers a lecture about his late brother Max (Jean Michel Paré) and his obsession with finding the "Vernian Standpoint." Trevor explains that according to Max's theories, a portal exists that leads to the center of the Earth.

Trevor's teenage nephew, Sean (Josh Hutcherson), arrives for a visit and is initially uninterested in his uncle's work. However, while searching through Max's old belongings, they discover a copy of Jules Verne's book, "Journey to the Center of the Earth," with Max's annotated notes. The notes reveal a pathway to the Vernian Standpoint in Iceland.

Determined to find Max, Trevor and Sean travel to Iceland, where they meet Hannah Ásgeirsson (Anita Briem), a local guide. Despite her initial skepticism, Hannah becomes their guide upon learning about Trevor's connection to Max. The trio embarks on a mountain expedition to find the hidden entrance to the center of the Earth.

After braving several dangers, including a lightning storm and treacherous cliffs, Trevor, Sean, and Hannah find themselves trapped in a deep cave. While searching for an exit, they stumble upon a massive chamber filled with glowing rocks. They discover this chamber is a geode that leads them deeper into the Earth.

As they venture deeper, Sean's knowledge of his father's notes helps guide them through various obstacles, including an enormous underground ocean and a swarm of giant, carnivorous birds. The trio eventually reaches a mythical underground forest where they encounter numerous prehistoric animals.

During their exploration, they find a carved message from Max, revealing that he is alive and has discovered a way to leave the center of the Earth. Excited by the prospect of rescuing Max, Trevor, Sean, and Hannah continue their journey, even as they encounter deadly dinosaurs and face near-death experiences.

Finally, the trio discovers the exit portal but must navigate through a rising lava chamber. Trevor heroically sacrifices himself by holding back a collapsing rock wall so Sean and Hannah can escape. Trevor tells Sean to live his own life and to never give up. Sean, deeply affected by his uncle's sacrifice, escapes with Hannah just in time.

Emerging from the portal, Sean and Hannah find themselves in the crater of an active volcano. They reunite with Trevor, who miraculously survived, and the three ascend to the surface. As they celebrate their return, Trevor reconciles with his estranged brother, Max, who had discovered another exit point.

Back in the real world, Sean presents his findings to his class, now inspired by the incredible adventure he experienced. Trevor starts to pursue a relationship with Hannah, and the movie ends with the trio looking forward to new adventures together.