Review of Simon Birch (1998) by Pat M — 07 Feb 2008

SIMON BIRCH is a touching story of a child who is born smaller than everyone else. He believes that God has made him the way that he is for a purpose and he lives his life searching for a sign to show him what that purpose is. He never lets anything get to him because he finds peace in his faith and best friend Joey. Simon brings joy and happiness to all of the lives that he touches and no one is ever the same after meeting him.

There is nothing particularly special about this film other than the story itself. The mise en scene is standard and the techniques are as well. The story however, holds a special meaning in it and you can't help but be touched by it. The acting is also superb. Young Ian Michael Smith as Simon Birch gives a brilliant performance as does Joseph Mazzello as his best friend Joe. The chemistry between these two kids on screen is pure magic and is something worht seeing.

I think the director did a great job guiding these kids to great performances and the all star supporting cast does a great job as well bringing the rest of this story to life. If you have two hours and are in the mood for a touching story I would definately give this one a try, you won't be disappointed.