Review of Like Stars on Earth (2007) by Christina Y — 24 May 2009

Every child is indeed special. This is a beautifully written, produced and directed movie by the super-talented Aamir Khan (yes, that cool bloke who acted in Ghajini). It is the story about Ishaan (played superbly by newcomer, Darsheel Safary), an eight-year old boy who simply hates to go to school. That's becuz every subject is difficult for him and he perpetually fails all his tests and exams. He also lacks motor coordination skills and finds it difficult to throw a ball in a straight line. Rather than help him, all his teachers and classmates subject him to constant acts of public humiliation.

It is no better at home. His father is a successful businessman who expects nothing less than the best from his boys. Ishaan's mother is a housewife who is perpetually frustrated by her inability to help Ishaan excel. Meanwhile, Ishaan's elder brother Yohaan is a successful scholar/athlete, a fact which Ishaan is constantly reminded of.

Can you imagine the constant state of turmoil the poor 8 year old boy is trapped in? But there is light at the end of the tunnel for Ishaan when a kind hearted, patient and understanding art teacher (starring the great Aamir Khan) happened to notice the internal struggles of the little boy.

What transpired between them later is nothing less than heartwarming. Through the art teacher, Ishaan was given a second chance to excel in life...and it turned out that he is mega talented in art!

Moral of the story: Dont give up on your kids or kids diagnosed with dyslexia. They didnt ask to be borned this way. With patience, love and care - these kids CAN overcome their 'handicap'.

This movie was understandably India's entry for the 2008 Academy Awards. It also won many international awards in Germany, Italy and even USA.

Well done again, Aamir Khan! Everything he does (be it - acting, directing or producing a movie) turns to instant gold!

The Singapore Government and parents should also be encouraged to watch this movie. The way the education system is run in Singapore, any kid who isn't born a genius will probably face the same struggles like Ishaan. No wonder there are so many cases of depressed kids in Singapore these days.

Remember - Every child IS special. And you dont have to be a Maths genius or a President's scholar to be considered a success in life. Alot of these so-called scholars sometimes lack what the world needs - EQ. Get it?