Everyone knows Spiderman (A.K.A. Peter Parker) by now. We know he was bitten by a radioactive spider that gave him spider senses and cool web-slinging abilities. We know how he fell in love with Mary Jane, and used his powers to save New York time after time. After all, with great power comes great responsibility right?
Michael Banks is no longer a little boy chasing a kite. He’s an adult with the weight of the world on his shoulders. Widowed, with three young children, he’s in financial difficulty and about to lose the family home. Even his sister Jane, is unable to help him get through the difficulty and there seems to be no way that he is going to be able to get them out of this problem. And we all know what happens when everything seems impossible, right? That’s when Mary Poppins shows up.
I found many beautiful things to love about this film. Based on a true story, not only does it take its viewer on a journey to Uganda and the realities of many families struggling to survive, but it showcases the strength of the human spirit. Solid determination shines like gold all throughout this story. It’s on vibrant display in Phiona’s concentration on the chessboard, her mother’s constant battle to support her family and even the pastor’s courage to push for opportunities for the village children.
From the simple two-note refrain of da dun . . . da dun, to that classic poster with a whole lot of shark teeth showing, there is nothing about this movie that isn’t classic. One can hardly discuss the fear of sharks without cracking a joke about acclaimed director Steven Spielberg’s classic film.
I was not one of the first to see Smallfoot. I missed a few preview screenings, although I was able to chat with director Karey Kirkpatrick. After our interview, I made plans to take my family on opening night.