I loved this movie. I just watched it, and I'd like to share some of the messages I got from it:
First, follow your dream(s). You may or may not reach your star, but the lesson from this film is that it's not the destination that's critically important—it's the journey that counts. Don't let anyone burst your bubble, either. Go for it, cherish the ride, and share that ride with those who are important in your life. When you experience bumps in the road—periods of discouragement—they will provide the fuel you need to continue.
Second, while it may be true that money rules the world, it's family that really matters. The Farmer family was a true inspiration to me. There were a lot of smiles and laughter at the Farmer table during meal times. Charles and Audie demonstrated their love for their three children through so many words and actions. And the kids reciprocated that love. I was moved by the love that bound this family together.
Third, make a plan and follow it, making adjustments as needed along the way. Don't expect things to just happen (although sometimes they do).
Finally, sometimes the feds just get in the way, demonstrating that they're not there to support us, but rather to serve themselves and their own agenda.
Billy Bob Thornton was brilliant, but I expected that. Virginia Madsen gave a very moving performance as a loving wife and mother, and their children—the little ones, Jasper and Logan, were wonderful. It continues to amaze me that kids can act well on sets and on location, with all those lights, cameras, crew, and other actors. Bruce Dern what can I say, he was perfect as the kids' grandfather, Hal. Last, but certainly not least, Max Thieriot. He was amazing as Farmer's teenage son, Shepard (Shep). He is as convincing here as a member of a relatively functional family as he was as a member of a highly dysfunctional family in The Family Tree.
I won't give away the ending, but I will state that during the last 10 minutes I was on my feet, applauding at times.
As others have posted on this board, this is certainly a family movie with many important life lessons for children—well, for everyone, really. I was certainly inspired!
First, follow your dream(s). You may or may not reach your star, but the lesson from this film is that it's not the destination that's critically important—it's the journey that counts. Don't let anyone burst your bubble, either. Go for it, cherish the ride, and share that ride with those who are important in your life. When you experience bumps in the road—periods of discouragement—they will provide the fuel you need to continue.
Second, while it may be true that money rules the world, it's family that really matters. The Farmer family was a true inspiration to me. There were a lot of smiles and laughter at the Farmer table during meal times. Charles and Audie demonstrated their love for their three children through so many words and actions. And the kids reciprocated that love. I was moved by the love that bound this family together.
Third, make a plan and follow it, making adjustments as needed along the way. Don't expect things to just happen (although sometimes they do).
Finally, sometimes the feds just get in the way, demonstrating that they're not there to support us, but rather to serve themselves and their own agenda.
Billy Bob Thornton was brilliant, but I expected that. Virginia Madsen gave a very moving performance as a loving wife and mother, and their children—the little ones, Jasper and Logan, were wonderful. It continues to amaze me that kids can act well on sets and on location, with all those lights, cameras, crew, and other actors. Bruce Dern what can I say, he was perfect as the kids' grandfather, Hal. Last, but certainly not least, Max Thieriot. He was amazing as Farmer's teenage son, Shepard (Shep). He is as convincing here as a member of a relatively functional family as he was as a member of a highly dysfunctional family in The Family Tree.
I won't give away the ending, but I will state that during the last 10 minutes I was on my feet, applauding at times.
As others have posted on this board, this is certainly a family movie with many important life lessons for children—well, for everyone, really. I was certainly inspired!