Joe Betsy
Struggles of families with gifted children summed up in a somewhat plausible, but improbable, tidy package. Doesn't shy away from the depression issues and self imposed stresses driving gifted people. The school scenario posed for being ill equipped to nurture math abilities was short sided for me. Issues with differing opinions within family on guiding children in general are explored fairly. Reviewer's tearjerker comments are surely driven by the calculated use of a one-eyed cat. Fortunately, Lucky, was eliminated from the list of cat names to choose from. I'm glad for the online availability and that we found and watched the movie.
24 people found this review helpful
Kristen Hoyt
In a society where too many people believe that what you achieve defines you, this film is refreshingly honest. There is nothing wrong with success, but in many ways we have taken the American dream too far...there are many different kinds of success and they are not all equally important. Mary is smart - genius-level smart - but she is also a kid that needs to learn how to be kind and generous, and how to get along in society. Gifted is a touching reminder of what REALLY matters in life. Academic achievements are great and something to be proud of, but, as the devastation wrought by Hurricane Harvey shows, when all the material achievements and status markers are stripped away, what REALLY matters is your character. And character can only be taught through living, through learning how to navigate life well with courage, compassion, and integrity - all of which are not found in the pages of a textbook! A simple movie with a simple, but timely message...definitely worth the time and money to watch it!
74 people found this review helpful