Review of Little Boy (2015) by Matthew C — 23 May 2015

Since this film didn't ruin my appetite for Christian explicit films like other have I'm giving it three stars and slightly letting it off the hook for some flaws. World War 2 is a topic that has been handled by the best of the best and Little Boy won't compare with the greats.

It will be forgotten because it doesn't take any real chances in trying to drive home a message of believing in something so strongly you'll die for it. I don't understand why the critics hate it so much, it's not as insulting as other films have been in their clear stupidity and lack of imagination.

Actually I would go further and say Little Boy did things right. It had cheese and fantastical moments that were misplaced and the beginning did bang you over the head with the same phrase, but some of the editing was very good and both Emily Watson and David Henry shined in their roles.

The beginning of the film really didn't need all the build up. The film suffered when too many plots fought for my attention. There are too many coincidences, too many contriving plot devices that make you know what will happen before it does.

The childlike faith and the work to remove hatred did work throughout which I liked but it all felt safe, for believers and non-believers to watch. I think his faith should have been explored in different ways rather than him screaming like he's constipated on the dock.

Focusing on his friendship with Hashimoto was when the film delivers a unique story. I think the film could have embraced its identity more rather than trying to reach as wide an audience as possible.

Kevin James' character was unnecessary, I understood the point, but it's a needless c plot. The list was cool and overall I liked the film more than I thought since most of these cheesy heartwarming God loves you films are putrid and not worth a dime because they try to preach and tell rather than show and entertain with genuine humanity.

The critics should lay off, a little.