`The Kid' is a sappy but easy to like film that pretends to be a comedy for kids when it really deals with an adult topic that is beyond the comprehension of its target audience. Russ Duritz (Bruce Willis) is days from his 40th birthday. His life is hardly full of mirthful joy. He is a dour, unhappy, impatient grouch who is brilliant at his work and alienates everyone he meets. Suddenly an eight-year-old boy appears, who he realizes is himself as a child, a part of his life that he has effectively blocked from memory. The interaction between him and his former self brings about an understanding of the forces that are affecting his life today and fosters a transformation to a happier Russ.
The story touches on heavy, soul-searching ideas in a very lighthearted way, which makes Audrey Wells' (`The Truth About Cats and Dogs', `George of the Jungle') script innovative and fresh. Its deeper implications are certainly far over the head of Disney age kids, but hit home with their parents. However, there is enough childlike silliness to keep the kids entertained while their parents ponder the true meaning of the film.
After his previous project, the heavy handed `Instinct', Director John Turteltaub shows amazing adaptive ability in being able to switch to a lighthearted comedy with equal effectiveness. His direction of the actors is terrific, and he is able to create scenes that are appealing to children, but not so juvenile that it puts off the adults. In addition, his 50's period schoolyard scenes are very accurate as to costumes, props and feel of the period.
Bruce Willis shows his versatility, giving a terrific comedic performance, unafraid to scream and stomp around like a kid to achieve the proper effect. Once again, he displays extraordinary chemistry with a child actor, making it seem more as if they are playing together than acting. Spencer Breslin is cherubic and believable as the kid in his first feature film. Lily Tomlin adds her wry comedy to the mix and is perfect as Russ's overwrought assistant. Jean Smart also deserves special mention, giving a sensitive performance as the stranger on the plane who becomes Russ's confidant.
This film has a lot to recommend it. It is entertaining and funny and it has a deeper message ensconced within the childish mischief. I rated it an 8/10. It is an enjoyable film that isn't just for kids.
The story touches on heavy, soul-searching ideas in a very lighthearted way, which makes Audrey Wells' (`The Truth About Cats and Dogs', `George of the Jungle') script innovative and fresh. Its deeper implications are certainly far over the head of Disney age kids, but hit home with their parents. However, there is enough childlike silliness to keep the kids entertained while their parents ponder the true meaning of the film.
After his previous project, the heavy handed `Instinct', Director John Turteltaub shows amazing adaptive ability in being able to switch to a lighthearted comedy with equal effectiveness. His direction of the actors is terrific, and he is able to create scenes that are appealing to children, but not so juvenile that it puts off the adults. In addition, his 50's period schoolyard scenes are very accurate as to costumes, props and feel of the period.
Bruce Willis shows his versatility, giving a terrific comedic performance, unafraid to scream and stomp around like a kid to achieve the proper effect. Once again, he displays extraordinary chemistry with a child actor, making it seem more as if they are playing together than acting. Spencer Breslin is cherubic and believable as the kid in his first feature film. Lily Tomlin adds her wry comedy to the mix and is perfect as Russ's overwrought assistant. Jean Smart also deserves special mention, giving a sensitive performance as the stranger on the plane who becomes Russ's confidant.
This film has a lot to recommend it. It is entertaining and funny and it has a deeper message ensconced within the childish mischief. I rated it an 8/10. It is an enjoyable film that isn't just for kids.