lisa-1006 Reviews

The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)

Question for "Old Fashioned and Heavy"

[29 February 2008]

I haven't seen the film yet but I'm a huge English history buff and have followed the story of King Henry since I watched the PBS series about his life and six wives as a young girl. That being said, I have to ask - is there some OTHER reason why Henry broke with the Catholic church and founded the Church of England beyond freeing him up to divorce Katheryn of Aregon and marry Anne Boleyn? If there is, please do tell. After more than 30 years of reading (non-fiction) and following this story, I have heard of no other.

Also, why do you say that this is a film for an older era? The history surrounding King Henry's monarchy are more compelling and captivating than any fiction and led to extraordinary changes in the history of the country that echo into the modern era. It is a timeless and fascinating story of ambition, fear, greed, and yes, love. While this film may not accurately depict the complete story, it is still entertainment and may well lead to stimulating a new generation to learn more.

Just my thoughts.

Bridge to Terabithia (2007)

Mislead - Comments refer to aspects of the story that could be perceived as spoilers. Read with this in mind.

[22 February 2007]

I have not seen this film, but my husband took my daughter and 3 other girls who are all 7 years old to see it. I sit with my daughter many hours a week while the Disney channel is on and have watched the numerous commercials and heavy marketing this film has received on the Disney network. Every clip represents the movie as a 'fantasy' film, with young children engaging in an imaginary world. There was never any mention or representation of any of the negative aspects of the story, some of which are extremely significant and potentially upsetting. This includes commercials, 'behind the scenes' segments and interviews with the cast. Thus, for those of us who did not read the book, aspects of the movie came as a serious shock and really upset our children and many of the other children in the theater.

I don't think that Disney is accurately representing the film on their network and, had we any idea what we were in for, would not have brought our children to see it. As a suggestion to others, before you spend your hard earned money, you may wish to do a little more research into the story and consider limiting the film to children who are a little older and/or know what to expect.