The Mighty (1998)

Sense of Empowerment

this movie is such a wonderful story of two boys who help each other overcome their limits and find their strengths. I applaud this story as such a must see for all teenagers and adults. July 30, 2008

Wonderful and Heartwarming

Now this is the type of movie all young children should read. And maybe a few of us adults as well. June 14, 2008

Heartwarming adaptation of a classic novel

Rodman Philbrick's Freak The Mighty (Scholastic Signature) is the tale of learning disabled Max (Elden Hensen), the son of incarcerated murderer "Killer" Kane (James Gandolfini, The Sopranos: The Complete First Season) and his friendship with Kevin (Kieran Culkin), a genius with Morquio's Syndrome (Ian Michael Smith from Simon Birch was also considered but turned down; a pity, since he actually *has* Morquio's Syndrome). Max has lived with his grim grandparents since the time that his father murdered his mother, and leads a painful existence at school. He rarely emerges from his basement room, terrified that he's too stupid and huge, and most importantly, that he takes after his homicidal father.

When Kevin moves next door, Max only wants to be invisible and is humiliated when Kevin becomes his reading tutor. But the unexpected happens: Kevin introduces Max to the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, and Max begins to harness the power of imagination. The two work out an arrangement where Max serves as Kevin's legs, and Kevin as Max's brain. The two are involved in several hair-raising adventures and flights of fancy until an unexpectedly violent event that changes both their lives. The screenplay stays fairly close to the original novel, which is a huge plus.

The Mighty is a prime example of an all-star cast used to full advantage. Kieran Culkin, even though able-bodied, does an admirable job as brainiac Kevin without becoming a caricature of his disability. Harry Dean Stanton, Sharon Stone, James Gandolfini, Gillian Anderson, and Meat Loaf all put in memorable performances. Sting also contributes the obligatory theme song, topping off a soundtrack drenched in Renaissance Faire Celtic stylings. A wonderful story of an unusual friendship that defies labels.
June 9, 2008

Funny movie slightly different from book

"Freak the Mighty" is such a touching book, so I was slightly disappointed in the movie. However, it still had its funny moments. I showed it to my eighth grade class after reading the book, and they really only got into the humorous parts. I thought the kidnapping scene and the end were very downplayed in the film. May 12, 2008

Mighty Good for Children/Family Viewing

I think that the Mighty is an inspirational movie and especially suitable for children and family viewing. It promotes very postive messaging around friendship and coping with/overcoming obstacles. Sharon Stone's acting was great and overall the rest of the cast did well. I thought the music was moving and suited the film.

The movie fell short for me in spots because I felt the script was a little too unrealistic and manipulative but don't let that damper your spirits in considering this as a very enjoyable watch with your children. There are some important messages/lessons to be learned here. May 8, 2008

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