Should become a classic

Rating: 9/10 (6 May 2015)

This is an absolutely wonderful movie. At times I was reminded of "Stand by Me" and "A Christmas Story." This film belongs with those classics. Although it specifically will appeal to baby boomers, its overall appeal should be relevant to everyone. Children may need a little history on WW2 before seeing it, but the theme is universal.
It's a period piece, so that there are no African Americans is somewhat understandable, and one wonders why the single Japanese resident chooses to stay in O'Hare, but the main message transcends all time.
I hadn't done much research on this film in advance and was pleasantly surprised. "Shocked" might even be appropriate to describe my reaction when I saw that it is a Roma Downey/Mark Burnett film. It is not preachy at all.
I think I would have preferred a different actor than Kevin James (too familiar) in the role of Dr. Fox, but he provided levity along with MANY other moments in the film, which is part of what makes it so unique and special. I HOPE this film becomes a classic (and a money-maker) because it certainly deserves to.
Go see it--and take a hankie.