Review of Mighty Oak (2020) by Brent_Marchant — 18 Aug 2020

When it comes to this family-oriented/young adult comedy-drama, the film's heart may be in the right place, but its execution could use some work. This story of a rock guitarist prodigy who may well be the reincarnation of a rising star killed in a car accident a decade earlier touches on some serious and thoughtful subject matter, but that material is often cheapened by attempts at softening it to make it less intense and more youth-friendly.

What's more, the family-friendly aspects are occasionally intruded upon by decidedly more adult material, making for an odd combination of story elements. Add to that production values, writing, acting and direction that come straight out of a made-for-cable movie, and you've got an even stranger concoction.

Yet, for all these shortcomings, "Mighty Oak" genuinely seems sincere enough in its attempt to tell a heartfelt and insightful tale that will appeal to its apparent target audience. So, if you can look past these issues, you'll find a modestly entertaining offering that's likely to please those who it was made for, as well as those with a mystical bent.

Just don't expect epic filmmaking.