Moviemom Reviews

Invisible Child (1999 TV Movie)

Lovely performances in an offbeat but touching story

[7/10 · 20 November 2007]

It surprises me that so many people have such negative reactions to this movie. It isn't the usual Lifetime story with dramatic betrayals and heartbreak. It is not a documentary about mental illness. But it is a sweet almost-fantasy about love and loss and families and the the difficulty of balancing being supportive and being an enabler. Rita Wilson has dignity and grace as the delusional mother of three children, one of whom happens not to exist except in her imagination. It is not too far removed from what families do all the time on a smaller scale. Jimmy Stewart saw a big rabbit-ish pooka, for goodness' sakes.

Tea with Grandma (2001)

Deliciously twisted tale

[8/10 · 6 October 2002]

What starts out as a sweet story of a young woman visiting her grandmother for a cozy session of tea and reminiscences turns into a hilariously shocking tale of revenge and murder. Fahn and Hedren are both marvelous, and I hope they do more together, maybe a remake of "Who Slew Auntie Roo?"

The Thief and the Cobbler (1993)

An undiscovered gem

[10/10 · 30 August 2002]

One of the most visually inventive animated films of all time, this is sheer delight for the entire family. Brilliant animation, outstanding voice talent, and a charming story, with a very funny musical number and a very satisfying conclusion -- don't miss it.

The First Olympics: Athens 1896 (1984)

An undiscovered gem

[9/10 · 25 August 2002]

This is a terrific miniseries, a wonderful story splendidly told. The origins of everything from the starting position for sprinters to the impulsive selection of the Star Spangled Banner as the national anthem, this story of the first Olympics in 1500 years is filled with drama, wit, and unforgettable characters.

The Reivers (1969)

An underappreciated gem

[8 August 2001]

A diverse group goes off on an adventure, each for his own reasons, and each comes back changed and much wiser. Romance, excitement, tough choices, new experiences, and a really great car -- what more can you ask for? In a just world, this would be considered a classic of the coming-of-age genre. It is one of McQueen's most complex and charming performances. Crosse, another actor who died much too young, is brilliant. It has some mature material, but it is a wonderful family movie to talk to kids 13 and up about what growing up really means.