SIMON BIRCH Cast: Joseph Mazzello, Ian Michael Smith, Ashley Judd, Oliver Platt, David Strathairn, Dana Ivey, Jan Hooks, Jim Carrey Director: Mark Steven Johnson Screenplay: Mark Steven Johnson suggested by "A Prayer for Owen Meany" by John Irving Reviewed by Luke Buckmaster
On the Buckmaster scale of 0 stars (bomb), to 5 stars (a masterpiece): 3 and half stars
"Time is a monster that cannot be reasoned with," says one character in Simon Birch, and that quote sums up much of the meaning of this film - but there's more to it than that. Simon Birch grasps one extraordinary character and shapes him in a good-natured and solidly made film. It is a film with meaning and significance, and one that uses emotion to keep its audience interested. For the most part, it works like a charm. Simon Birch is an involving and gratifying experience, one that tunnels its way into your heart and leaves you feeling uplifted. The only significant flaw in the production is its stark simplicity - the storytelling here is straightforward and obvious, but compelling nonetheless.
During the film's opening scene, we know that it will not end entirely happily from the sight of a young boy's gravestone. Simon Birch (Ian Michael Smith) is the smallest delivery in the history of the Gravestown Memorial Hospital, pronounced a miracle by doctors. Simon is physically stunted but intelligent and witty - during church he interrupts the sermon: "If God's made the church bake sale a priority, we're in a lot of trouble." Simon's best friend is Joe (Joseph Mazzello), and together they strive to answer the questions that plague their lives. For Joe, the disclosed identity of his father lies somewhere in the town, and Simon firmly believes that he is an instrument from God who will, one day, become a hero.
The film would have succeeded more on a dramatic level had it taken a greater focus on Simon's personal life. His parents neglected him since birth, ashamed at how society considers him a freak and oblivious to the incredible person he has become. But I guess that is another story. Simon Birch is really about the friendship between two very different people, and young actors Ian Michael Smith and Joseph Mazzello bring that friendship to life. Smith especially is incredible in his first film role - his performance is the most unique act you'll see this side of Roberto Benigni. The supporting cast is also splendid. Ashley Judd makes a believable homely mother to Joe, and Jim Carrey has a small but special part as Joe's adult, present day self.
Simon Birch is simplistic in formation and unashamedly sentimental, yet it deserves to be respected and admired for its insights into the human endeavors of faith, devotion and friendship. Director Mark Steven Johnson (who wrote Grumpy Old Men and its sequel) paces his film well, and at no point does it become boring or intimidating. It is an honest and good-natured relationship study with clarity and precision. A lovely little film that wears its heart on its shoulders, Simon Birch is a charming journey to the heart of one of societies lovable misfits, and a "normal" boy whose life will be altered forever thanks to a small, "meaningless" outcast.
Read more of my reviews at In Film Australia http://infilmau.iah.net
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