Again... Good story but movie I wouldn't rent

Rating: 5/10 (22 February 2006)

I just saw this movie on TV so I'm happy I didn't have to spend anything to see it.
I felt there was something missing in the acting. It was melodramatic, lacking any emotional depth despite numerous attempts to turn it into a tear jerker. Everything just falls into place so easily for Radio that it feels unrealistic, like a fairy tale. It left me feeling like I hadn't connected with the characters in any way. Even though I wanted to say 'you go get 'em Radio,' it wasn't until the last clips with the real Radio?? at the end that I felt a connection with the presented character. Those few images and seconds at the end would have been wonderful if they stood alone, maybe made into a 5 minute in-between shows documentary without all the other stuff. The movie just didn't do justice to the actual 'real-life' story.
If you want a good movie on the topic of 'handicapped people,' with excellent acting and an intelligent, thought-provoking story check out the South Korean film 'Marathon.' http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0448621/
If you're looking for a simple (though poorly executed) story with a simple message you should probably stick with this movie and/or reference your Disney collection. I prefer movies that actually have something original to offer, that contribute to a deeper understanding of the issues presented. I've heard the 'let's all treat each other equally' message a thousand times but it's rare to find a movie like 'Marathon' that forces you to examine the institutional, social (individual and familial), and even philosophical challenges associated with being handicapped in the modern world.