This movie is such a delight. I love playing this "little game"! I also play the Chinese version (not checkers) of this "little game" as well.
Makenna Ballard played her character as though she has been living in front of the camera. I adore all of the relationships between her and her surrounding characters, especially irresistible with YaYa (Olympia Dukakis).
A game taught in such a way puts someone in a different state of mind, rather than focusing on what is going on in this wonderful story of growing up and dealing with "inevitable change", one might start to drift off thinking and reflecting upon his/her own experiences in life.
The other relationship, with the teacher, Norman (F. Murray Abraham) who teaches us about being curious. Though I must say that he drives me impatient. But then, I think of swimming. What is to be able to swim? Is it simply "by constantly moving in any sort of motion, one would surely be able to stay afloat, and eventually get across to the other side"?
One stroke at a time... one breath at a time.
Like R B mentioned, the relationships at school and at home are all rather familiar, however some of the fantasies have a tendency to take away a certain intellect.
To put readers in further curiosity, and perhaps even confusion, here's a metaphor for you: "the unforgettable flight of stairs".
I recommend this movie for most of the messages to both children and adults.
Makenna Ballard played her character as though she has been living in front of the camera. I adore all of the relationships between her and her surrounding characters, especially irresistible with YaYa (Olympia Dukakis).
A game taught in such a way puts someone in a different state of mind, rather than focusing on what is going on in this wonderful story of growing up and dealing with "inevitable change", one might start to drift off thinking and reflecting upon his/her own experiences in life.
The other relationship, with the teacher, Norman (F. Murray Abraham) who teaches us about being curious. Though I must say that he drives me impatient. But then, I think of swimming. What is to be able to swim? Is it simply "by constantly moving in any sort of motion, one would surely be able to stay afloat, and eventually get across to the other side"?
One stroke at a time... one breath at a time.
Like R B mentioned, the relationships at school and at home are all rather familiar, however some of the fantasies have a tendency to take away a certain intellect.
To put readers in further curiosity, and perhaps even confusion, here's a metaphor for you: "the unforgettable flight of stairs".
I recommend this movie for most of the messages to both children and adults.