A Beautiful Day in
the Neighborhood
is a heartwarming reminder of the simple kindness and hope of a children’s TV
figure, Mister Rogers. As played by Tom Hanks (an Oscar caliber performance),
he becomes more than myth, a living, caring soul for our times.
Opening
with his PBS show in 1998, Mister Fred Rogers introduces us to Lloyd Vogel
(Matthew Rhys), a hard charging writer who reluctantly accepts a magazine
assignment to interview Rogers. Lloyd is
an angry, sad man who’s rocky relationship with his father (Chris Cooper)
causes family tension. As Rogers explores
Lloyd’s internal conflict and emotional walls, what emerges is the truth about
his past and the promise of reconciliation and love.
Lloyd
may be a broken man, but Rogers helps him heal.
In a way, Lloyd is our window to a magical, almost surreal world with its
miniature sets, puppet friends, and musical cues. These shows become self-contained life lessons that act as a framework for
individual stories. Although the show is aimed at children, it allows adults
the opportunity to reconnect with their childhood.
Seeing
Hanks as Rogers is a bit jarring at first, but then he totally becomes the icon. Throughout
the film, Rogers’ decency shines in its simplicity and patience. He becomes more than a TV personality but
rather a caring human being who sees value in every person, while sharing his own
experiences about life and even death.
There
are nice moments including a subway ride with passengers serenading the Rogers’
theme song, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” The
film is about compassion and redemption ultimately resulting in a transformative
experience. There is an infectious spirit and goodwill that lingers after
the credits. Go see it.
****
of **** stars (for Rogers fans)
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