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The Indian in the Cupboard

What’s the Story?

Reviewed byRafael 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 18th century Iroquois warrior who's all of three inches tall.

Is It Any Good?

5

THE INDIAN IN THE CUPBOARD 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.

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