Odd Life of Timothy Green, The (12/4/2012)

Rated PG for mild thematic elements and brief language.

Starring Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton, CJ Adams, Dianne Wiest, Common, David Morse and Ron Livingston

Directed by Peter Hedges (Dan in Real Life)

The Odd Life of Timothy Green was so much more than what I expected.

Academy Award nominated director/writer Peter Hedges brings enchantment to the screen with The Odd Life of Timothy Green, an inspiring, magical story about a happily married couple, Cindy and Jim Green (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton), who can’t wait to start a family but can only dream about what their child would be like. When young Timothy (CJ Adams) shows up on their doorstep one stormy night, Cindy and Jim—and their small town of Stanleyville—learn that sometimes the unexpected can bring some of life’s greatest gifts.

When I first saw the previews for this film, I was on the fence about seeing it. I couldn’t decide whether it looked like total cheese or an absolute train wreck. But when my wife said she wanted to watch it I knew I no longer had a choice. As I began to watch the film, I discovered that the movie was very heartwarming and moving.

JONATHAN’S WORD: I was the same way. I really had no intention of watching this movie, but I caught the beginning of it on a plane and couldn’t stop watching it. The story and characters really captured me.

TODD’S WORD: The cast, which includes Jennifer Garner, Joel Edgerton and CJ Adams in the lead roles, is absolutely perfect. And with supporting cast of Dianne Wiest, Common, David Morse and Ron Livingston truly add to the depth of the film.

JONATHAN’S WORD: The casting was good all around, even the small roles. Morse was awesome as the grandfather, Common as the soccer coach. But the kid was truly the biggest treat.

TODD’S WORD: As good as the cast and director are, the heart of this film is the story. I was instantly drawn in to the seemingly perfect couple living in a seemingly perfect town. But they are both flawed, along with the school, the soccer team, and the factory. In fact it all seemed very real and very familiar. So when Timothy shows up and turns everything on its ear, you can’t help but smile inside.

The only real criticism about this film is the lack of detail in the story. The who or what Timothy Green is never gets fully explained. Questions like “Where did he come from?” and “Where did he go?” are left unanswered. But truthfully, it wasn’t until the movie was over and I was working on this review that I gave it that much thought.

JONATHAN’S WORD: I think that was some of the magic of the film. Life doesn’t always answer all of our questions. This move didn’t try to force an explanation for everything. Instead, it just provided a captivating storyline about love and relationships.

I really enjoyed it. I give it a THEATRE WORTHY.

TODD’S WORD: I agree. Go rent this one immediately and allow yourself to just enjoy a very sweet story that your whole family can watch. The Odd Life of Timothy Green is THEATRE WORTHY.

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There are a few moments you, as parents will need to be ready for. Like when Timothy is bullied at school and when his parents are similarly bullied by their bosses. There is also a scene that involves an older man dying in a hospital.
There is almost no profanity at all in this film.

CONVERSATION STARTER

1. At the end of the film Timothy is explaining why he gave his leaves away and to whom. Do you think he knew what would happen as he gave his leaves away? Why or why not?


2. What does that tell you about Timothy?


3. Tell me about a time when you sacrificed and really gave something to someone else.


4. How did they respond?


5. How did it make you feel?


6. Read Hebrews 13:16
   
   And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.
   
   
7. Why do you think it pleases God when we do good and give to others?


8. What is something you can do this week to sacrificially give to others?