Overall Rating:
Score: 8.1/10
Grade: A-
Family-Friendliness Scale: Level 4 (Great)
Kids ages 6+
"We wanted to tell you our story" "There's just one thing" "You're going to find it hard to believe". Indeed.
The movie's story is about a married couple, Jim and Cindy Green (Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Garner), who are unable to have a child. One day, after being told to give up by a doctor, they put all their wishes for a child in a box and pledge to move on. But after a rainstorm comes through, the unexpected happens. A 10-year old boy named Timothy (CJ Adams) comes to their doorstep, all covered in dirt. Seeing the leaves on his legs, the Greens have a ton of questions, but come to the realization that this kid was given to them. Soon after, Timothy not only does the majority of what Jim and Cindy had written for him, but he also touches everyone that he sees.
Positive Notes
The movie contains strong messages about unconditional love, parenthood and childhood. Through Timothy's time with the Greens, the parents wish for his childhood to be perfect. And along the way, they realize they make quite a bunch of mistakes, and learn what it truly means to be a parent. As for Timothy, he's honest and sweet to anyone he meets. His friend Joni, despite being kicked in the face while trying to save him from drowning, understands how different he is. There's also a couple of nice solid reminders about how we can't live up to everyone's expectations and that everyone has to grow up sometime.
The autumn cinematography is beautiful. The cast was brilliant, with Garner and Edgerton doing a nice job as the parents, and M. Emmet Walsh, Rosemarie DeWitt, Odeya Rush, and Common providing some back-up support.
Negative Notes
One h-word and a half-dozen interjections of God's name. In one scene, Joni is shown wearing a bathing suit that shows her mid-driff. Timothy is (briefly) bullied on his first day of school.
Some younger kids may be upset by Timothy's (spoiler!) disappearance after a flash of lighting and when a family member passes away.
Some people might get a bit confused about the films' fable-like story and how it compares to real life.
Some people might get a bit confused about the films' fable-like story and how it compares to real life.
Conclusion
Timothy Green's sentimental story is something we don't usually see in the movies these days. Its emotional, inspiring, and particularly odd way of illustrating strong family values is likely something that will be embraced by many families. It touched me in an emotional way too.
Parents will be inspired, and kids will likely enjoy the kid-centered tale. However, it is a bit sadder than what we'd usually expect from family dramas. And although there is a happy ending, its' not without its' share of tearful moments. Some younger kids may indeed not be pleased when Timothy (spoiler alert!) goes away like the leaves in the fall. I remember a story on Inside Edition about two boys (a year or two older than the age recommendation I placed on the film) crying after seeing the movie, and claiming, "it was so sad!". That (minor) advisory is the only reason why Timothy Green avoids a Level 5 on the "Family-Friendliness Scale".
Emotional moments notwithstanding, for families willing to sit through an old-fashioned story of triumphs (and tears), Timothy Green is a wonderful tale that shouldn't be missed.
