A thoughtful commentary on Adoption in America

Rating: 3/10 (26 June 2010)

In early 2009, America was mired in an epidemic: adoption fever. From Madonna to Branjelina, to Tom Cruise to Michelle Pfeiffer, Americans were at odds with the notion of traditional parenthood. Instead, they traveled afar, to the impoverished nations of Africa and Asia in search of children. The more impoverished the child, the greater the status symbol. It seemed as if the party would never end, and that America would continue to fuel its adoption-binge with foreign babies.
Americans were given a sobering expose on the risks of adoption when The Orphan was released in theaters nationwide. The story of Esther (based on true events that took place in 1980s Nevada), gave a reality check to hopeful couples - couples who were caught up in the furor of adoption-mania. Esther's story should serve as a profound reminder of the tribulations all parents face.
Sure, kids are cute. They make nice accessories when you're looking to fill seats in your minivan. But every once in a while, they'll set the house on fire, or bludgeon you to death with a hammer. And Esther's story brings these notions to the forefront of our collective consciousness.
A must-see for couples looking to adopt.