6. I Am David
“I am David” was a bestselling book for young adults before it was made into a film. This movie itself is a hidden message in that it is a total surprise that it was ever made. This story raises the bar on what kids movies should be.
The viewers are treated to a story about a real boy working his way through real challenges. It pushes kids to think about how they might act under similar circumstances. There is no condescension or predictability in this film. Children are not portrayed as helpless observers constantly watched over by adults, but as individuals that are able to tackle difficult problems and questions.
The story is based on the journey that the main character makes from an Eastern European gulag to safety in Western Europe. The film shows the horrors of Communism and the triumph of faith, hope and charity.
David, who is spiritually dead to the point that he does not know how to smile, is brought back to life by every connection that he makes with his fellow human beings. This film is a testament to the importance of human relationships and what happens when we dehumanize people.
You may want to watch this film before you show it to your kids due to the disturbing events that take place in the gulag.
Next: A film that doesn’t set the bar low for boys…
