"Radio" (or "James" played by Gooding), is a developmentally delayed young man who wanders by the High School every day. He eventually catches the attention of the football coach (Harris) who wins his trust, stands up for him and teaches him.
"James" is nicknamed "Radio" because he has a fascination and love for radios and is largely non-verbal in the early encounters with Coach.
It is a touching film about tolerance and intolerance, prejudice, fear, love and a whole slew of other interesting social issues. I think I've seen the film twice now. I forgot I had already seen it, but enjoyed it again. I'll be hiding my own Easter eggs soon. If you missed it...check it out. We rented it from Netflix.
Both Gooding and Harris give first rate performances. It's just good. It's rated PG primarily for being a bit more of a sophisticated storyline that might bore young children. But there's nothing in it that children can't see. Maybe watch it with your child so you can talk about the issues or questions that might come up.
James Robert Kennedy, born in 1946, is still attending High School and is the honorary assistant coach. This is what he looks like today (You see him at the end of the movie too). You can keep up to date with him on the official website. Watch the trailer below, or via this link.
I also rented this recently and we watched it as a family. We found it enthralling and touching. It does make one examine just how they treat others who are different from themselves. All of us loved the coach played by Ed Harris. He had just the right mix of empathy and respect. And when he shares with his daughter the reasons why he is helping Radio, the feelings of past guilt are palpable. It's a great movie.
ReplyDeleteVery worthwhile viewing!
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