My family thought they were pretty cool tonight as we viewed a film not yet released to the public.
It comes out on Tuesday.. but still.
They asked me to review it, in exchange for a copy. I said yes. I forced the whole family, PLUS Thing 1.5 to be finished with baths, dinner, and be ready for school tomorrow by 7pm so that we could watch it.
As a family.
Because I’m cruel like that.
I’m pretty sure they were dreading it, but it wasn’t an option.
In the movie, You’ve Got a Friend, Bobby Graham is a twelve year old boy whose personal problems haven gotten in the way of his dream: to win the American Soapbox Derby Championship. With the odds against him, including his school foe and main competition in the race, Bobby is determined to prove himself with a personal best and unbeatable new self-confidence.
I know that sounds a little on the lame side — I know because my 15 year old might have said it did.
In all actuality, the relationship between Bobby, a 12 year old who loses his parents and is sent to live with his Aunt and Uncle, forms a relationship with an unlikely friend, war veteran and town recluse, Jim. Their bond, coupled with Bobby’s determination make this a pretty neat film.
In fact, when it was over, I asked the 5 children in the room aged 15, 14, 13, 9, and 7 what they though and the 14 and 7 year old yelled, “I loved it.”
The hubs thought it was a good movie as well.
The 9 and 15 year old felt like it would’ve been better if the story continued.
A sequel maybe?
All in all, I give You’ve Got a Friend two thumbs up. In this day in age, it’s hard to find movies that all the family will like (especially with our age ranges) and one that’s family friendly and I don’t have to worry about what they see or hear.
I recommend you pick this movie up Tuesday and watch with your family. You won’t be disappointed (even if you can figure out how it ends!)
