Decent, but could have been better

Rating: Null/10 (22 November 2003)

"Radio" seemed to be the type of movie that everyone of all ages would want to see. However, like a lot of movies that are put out at bad times, Radio seemed to be a burn brightly for a week or so, but then was snuffed out by the release of several other big box office movies. Going to see the movie, I didn't know whether to expect a movie about a retarded person or a retarded movie. The low imdb rating didn't help me get my hopes up, even though the trailer was pretty good.
It is, as advertised, "a heartwarming film." The story is perfect for some old-fashioned tear-jerking, but maybe it should have stayed on TV. Ed Harris and Cuba Gooding, Jr. are on par for the most part, but Harris didn't seem to be enthusiastic about playing his character. Also, Gooding Jr. does the best he can, but sometimes it's extremely hard to take him seriously. I have to admit that he had to have a lot courage to take the role though. The James Horner score was also pretty good but it sounded like a lot of the other scores that he'd composed. A lot of the minor actors and parts, though, weren't as good as they should've been. Radio's mom, played my S. Epatha Markeson, seemed to baby Radio a bit too much, but then again I don't know much about the actual story. The actress who played Coach's daughter also seemed to be a little forced in her role too. Plus, look out for the scene with Radio, his mom, and Coach where Radio asks them both to dance. It's probably the most awkward scene I've ever seen in a movie.
In all fairness, though, "Radio" is well put together and portrays exemplary moral values. It's worth a watch.
Final Grade: B