A "Christian View" Movie Review: Ramona and Beezus

I went to go see "Ramona and Beezus" with my girlfriend this weekend. I was absolutely thrilled with the movie. Though it is a children's movie, and rated G, it has a lot to offer for adults. I was continually impressed with the wonderful example of father hood that was portrayed, and the overall message the movie communicated. For a synopsis of the movie or other reviews, check out the embedded links!

Since this is my first movie review, let me explain my process briefly. The aim of this series is to evaluate modern movies from the context of Christianity. While some movies may be amazing and entertaining, not all are appropriate for a Christian audience of any kind. Further more, I will use the following point system: A total of 10 points for acting (Casting, Acting Ability, etc.), 10 points for writing (Plot, Originality, Atmosphere), 10 points for "message" (themes, motiffs, etc.), 15 points for Christian Appropriateness (Rating, Morality, etc.), and 5 points for technical stuff (lighting, camera, music). This will be a total of 50 points, with a letter grade following, and my suggestion about who should see it, or skip it. Enjoy!

The acting in this movie was absolutely superb. The casting was excellent, from Hobart to Miss Meacham, every acting choice was a perfect fit. It was a pretty all star cast as well--with Disney great Selena Gomez, John Corbett and Bridgett Moynahan of "Sex and the City" fame, and "Grey's Anatomy" star Sandra Oh, how could you go wrong? The only relatively "untried" member of this cast was the star, 11 year old Joey King. Between her big, gorgeous, gray eyes and her complete immersion into her character of Ramona, she executes a near flawless portrayal of this beloved children's character. In my mind, she "stole the show" and was one of the primary reasons this movie was such a success!

The overall writing in this movie was excellent. Because it is a children's movie, it is a little predictible, but there are still some cute surprises and funny-yet-appropriate jokes for the adults. The story flowed very well and there were very few holes. The plot wasn't overly original, but was relatively refreshing and presented a wonderful take on a typical suburban narrative.

The characters were beautifully developed. The father was a wonderful portrayal about what parenthood should be and yet was realistic. Robert Quimby (John Corbett) is a loving, wonderful, self-sacrificing father, but he still fights with his wife (ending up sleeping on the couch, of course), and his children still drive him crazy every once in a while.

Perhaps the best part of this movie is the feeling of nostalgia and creativity that surrounds it.  It is a movie told from a child's perspective.  As such, it draws in children because it familiar, but it draws in adults because it is filled with fantastic wonder, simplicity, innocence, and a longing to return to what we've lost.

While not explicitly Christian, this movie does hold some Christian values. It speaks of such themes as staying true to yourself, cultivating strong family ties, empowering each other, second chances and forgiveness, and redemption and perseverance. These messages are not always explicit, so for some children (and even adults) to catch on to them may take a little discussion.

This movie is rated G, so obviously it is appropriate for all ages.  There are a few things that, depending on the preference of the parent, may be inappropriate for the child.  There is a brief conversation about divorce and its effect on children, and the loss of a job and losing their house may also be traumatic.  These are both wonderful learning opportunities for children however.  Overall, this movie is appropriate for all ages to see.

This movie is technically perfect, which isn't surprising since it is produced by Fox-Walden media.  Lighting and camera angels are perfect, and transitions are smooth and seamless. The music is wonderful--consisting of the perfect meld of contemporary pop (ex. taylor swift) and instrumental score, the soundtrack helps set each scene perfectly.

This movie is a must see.  Rarely is there a movie that can be enjoyed by the entire family for both its simplicity and its beauty.  While not explicitly Christian it is extremely family oriented.  The acting and writing are nearly flawless. Don't skip this movie--when it comes out rent it or buy it.  You wont regret it!