Milton's Secret

A good topic but lacking in dramatization. Donald Sutherland is good as the sympathetic grandfather.

In light of Donald Sutherland's recent passing, I would be remiss if I didn't say that his performance was the only thing worthwhile. Even though I thought that including a hippie grandpa was a lame writing choice and all his dialogue went in one ear and out the other. Overall, it was a bore fest of a film that perhaps tried to give a philosophical message on how to lead one's life or forgive others.

The movie was so unrealistic and dreary. I didn't feel any emotions and the kid actors had nothing to offer. Every performer seemed so agitated and overextended.

There was a slight glimmer of hope when it came to showcasing the young man's anxiety. Otherwise I found myself turning my head away from the screen and wondering if it made sense to turn the film off. I wish I had trusted my instincts.

Milton Adams is a meek 11 year old boy. Ms. Ferguson (Michelle Rodriguez) is his teacher. His parents (David Sutcliffe, Mia Kirshner) are struggling with personal and money issues. His grandpa Howard (Donald Sutherland) comes for a visit. Milton gets bullied by angry classmate Carter Crane who has an angry father.

The bullying gets really stressful. I like the movie more when it has no easy solutions. That's why I find Howard's self-help guru a bit annoying. I don't mind the attempt but it needs more development. The final bathroom scene is another interesting attempt but it does come off a bit too simplistic. Maybe Howard would face one or two tough hurdles himself. This has such a tough subject matter and the solution feels rather too simple. Some of the self-help talk may have lost a bit translating from the page.

The 5 stars were given because I expected more mystery and obvious miracles.

I came back because it's an excellent movie that will speak to a lot of "beliefs", including atheism.

This movie has a lot of valuable lessons in it, very suitable for schools to show this in class. This movie reminded me of the wave, very educational for kids and adolescents.

The storyline is what drew me to watch this movie. It started out slow, but I really wanted to see where it would go and I wasn't disappointed. Donald Sutherland is superb in this. The storyline is very contemporary and credible. I would definitely recommend this. Well written, well acted.