Opening in Los Angeles today (September 30, 2016) as well on VOD (Video on Demand), is the coming of age, family friendly film, Milton’s Secret.
The film is based on the 2008 children’s book “Milton’s Secret: An Adventure of Discovery Through Then, When, and the Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle and Robert S. Friedman.
Milton’s Secret stars William Ainscough (Milton), Donald Sutherland (Grandpa Howard), Mia Kirshner (Milton’s mom Jane), David Sutcliffe (Milton’s father Bill), and Michelle Rodriquez (Ms. Ferguson).
Growing up is hard enough, especially when you are in your ‘tween years where you are not yet an adult, but certainly not a child either.
Milton is dealing with normal ‘tween/teen angst. His parents are also stressing out over their careers and money. I think A LOT of people can relate to that. As parents we try to keep our kids “in the dark” about things we, as parents, stress about because we don’t want our kids to stress about them too.
To make matters worse, Milton is getting bullied by a boy named Carter. Milton’s anxiety levels are through the roof.
Just when things appear to be at their worst, Milton’s Grandpa Howard (wonderfully played by Donald Sutherland), comes for a visit.
Spending time with his grandfather, Milton learns an important lesson (the “secret”), which is to live in the hear and now and don’t continue to dwell on the past or worry about the future. This is sound advice (although easier said than done).
What if Milton could apply this life lesson to his own life – and the lives of the people around him? Would it change things for the better? To find out you need to see Milton’s Secret. If you are in the Los Angeles area look for it at a theater near you. For the rest of the country, look for Milton’s Secret on Video on Demand.
Here is the film’s trailer for your enjoyment.
This is a wonderful, family friendly film. I would recommend it for older children since it does feature bullying (although it could lead into a great discussion on the subject).
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. This film would be a great way to teach children (and some adults) about bullying, as well as the life lesson of living in the here and now.
Donald Sutherland was superb in the role of Grandpa Howard. I think we could all use a grandfather like him. He may be getting up there in age but the man still has charisma.
Young William Ainscough, who play the title role of Milton, also did an excellent job. He was a great casting choice. He was very believable as a ‘tween trying to deal with life and all its ups and downs. When he was down and stressing out on screen I wanted to reach into my television and give him a hug so that he knew everything would be OK (that is my maternal instinct kicking in).
Michelle Rodriquez also did a great job as teacher Ms. Ferguson. I’m so used to watching her in “tough as nails” movies where she is fierce and not the type of person you want to mess with. It was refreshing to see her still tough, but a bit more mellow, in this film.
I really enjoyed the film and I love the messages the movie is providing to viewers. It’s a feel good, entertaining and wonderful film.
Kimberly
*I received a free screener to review. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.