Movie Review: The Odd Life of Timothy Green

Academy Award®–nominated writer/director Peter Hedges brings enchantment to the screen with Disney’s “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.

Movie Review by Ann Scott who was invited to preview the movie.

Caught a pre-screening of The Odd Life of Timothy Green this week.  I really enjoyed the film.  So did my kids.  Afterwards, my 9 year old said “that was a really good movie” and when I asked my 6 year old what she thought she said “wonderful”.  It was family-friendly, emotional, funny, sweet and heart-warming.

Of course, you have to go into it with an open mind.  The premise is a bit fantastical.  Timothy Green’s parents are not able to have a baby but are able to conceive Timothy in a different and magical way.

Timothy is a dream come true child, literally.  He embodies the hopes and dreams of his parents and fulfills them all.  He brings out the best in others by helping them see themselves.  The actor who plays Timothy, CJ Adams, was just perfect for this role. 

Love and family are the major themes of the movie and there is a lot of both.  There are the typical family dynamics – father & son communication, sibling rivalry, hovering parents, dealing with loss and gaining understanding. Lessons are learned and relationships improve. The ending just confirms that there are all kinds of families as long as you have an open heart.

Friendship is also an important element.  Timothy makes a best friend in Stanleyville and their relationship is wonderful.  What they create together is amazing.  You’ll have to go see the movie to experience it…

I liked the idyllic setting of the film, small town, old farm house, simple lifestyle, lots of nature.  There are a lot of beautiful scenes of the outdoors.  The “green” theme runs through it and there is even a clever effort made to save the trees.

All in all there are a number of positive messages that come out of the film.  I would recommend it as a feel good, family movie.