Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this movie has some more mature moments: Omri is upset when he brings an aging figure to life that subsequently suffers a fatal coronary. Little Bear explains that he is mourning his wife. Both Little Bear and Boone explain to Omri that it is time for them to find wives and have children. Younger kids will especially love seeing the toys come to life, but it's the 9- to 12-year-olds who will truly appreciate this story of fantasy and friendship. Teens may enjoy it but feign indifference.
Families who see this movie may want to discuss what older kids have had to give up as they've grown up, such as their blankets and childish toys. How did Omri deal with the loss of his friends at the end of the film? Or, families may want to discuss how they make their friends feel cherished every day. How did Little Bear express his love for Omri?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Rafael Munsi
In this film adaption of the popular book by Lynne Reid Banks, a young boy receives a magical cupboard and key that bring to life an eighteenth century Iroquois warrior all of three inches tall. Flawless effects add to this tale.
This film comes to life with help from E.T. veteran Melissa Mathison's script and the technical wizardry of Industrial Light and Magic of Star Wars renown. (It's no coincidence that Omri briefly brings to life Darth Vader.) The illusion of the movie is magical, bringing together a wistful school boy and miniature warrior in delightful detail.
The friendship between young Omri and the mature Little Bear is a journey of self-discovery and growth. The strength of the film is Little Bear, played by Litefoot, who teaches Omri about the pain of personal loss, and the responsibility that is part of growing up. "Boo Hoo" Boone, the crying cowboy, is a foil for the stoic Little Bear and provides comic relief reminiscent of the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz.
Though a solid film for children, anyone that likes a good story will be satisfied. Viewers familiar with the novel may be disappointed that several key characters are left out of the screen version. But overall, The Indian in the Cupboard offers a fine example of a book adaptation.
Other books that have been made into excellent movies for children and their families include The Secret Garden based on the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory based on the book by Roald Dahl.
Rate It!
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ViolenceLittle Bear and Boone duel with guns and arrows on their first encounter. By accident, the cowboy Boone is shot in the chest with an arrow, though he later recovers. Omri is accosted by a bigger boy who takes his money. Little Bear must go beneath the floorboards where a rat lives. The rat lunges, but is soon captured. |
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Social BehaviorLittle Bear helps Omri learn that friendship, responsibility and sacrifice are part of being independent. Omri takes his brother's and father's possessions without asking though he later makes amends. Disturbed by his brothers' presence in his room, Omri lashes out by kicking their pet rat. |
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