Don't Judge By The Trailers

Rating: 9/10 (8 January 2014)

What a great movie. I was only mildly interested in seeing it when my brother encouraged me to go. The trailers gave it the appearance of a sappy comedy/drama made for kids. I didn't even know it was rated PG-13 until I arrived at the theater. Boy that's not it at all! If this movie failed at anything, it was its advertising. Kids would not relate well to it; it's definitely made for adults. I don't know why the trailers don't reveal more of the true depth of this film, but please don't judge the film based on them alone.
The humor won't have you rolling on the floor, but that's not the point. It provides just the right tone to offset the very sad and dark material of P.L. Travers' childhood. As a child of an alcoholic father myself, I can really relate to P.L. Travers and the scenes involving her father brought back a flood of memories of my own. I haven't cried this much during a movie in years. This movie should evoke emotion from just about anyone, but for those who have experienced an abusive childhood, I think it will be particularly touching. Not many movies express the pains the alcoholism as well as this. I can only hope more will follow.
But what I really loved about this film is that despite the sadness, it has a resounding message of forgiveness and hope. Though we go through incredible pain, we must forgive those who hurt us and move forward towards a better future. Great advice, not only for people who have experienced abuse, but for all people in general.
I hope this movie wins Best Picture at the Academy Awards this year. It is definitely worth your time!