A movie that satisfied mine and my husband's tastes equally; my love of "people stories" and his for overcoming odds and SPORTS. The movie was Radio starring (again) Cuba Gooding Jr and Ed Harris. Family friendly from age 10 and up for instances of bullying and emotional drama. Language was fine and no sexual content.
"Football coach Harold Jones befriends Radio, a mentally-challenged man who becomes a student at T.L. Hanna High School in Anderson, South Carolina. Their friendship extends over several decades, where Radio transforms from a shy, tormented man into an inspiration to his community." from IMDb
Teachable moments:
All these are great questions to ask durring, or after viewing the movie.
What is the worth of those who are mentally challenged. Do they have a place in society? How has this movie changed your views about the mentally-challenged?
How do we respond to bullying. Are you a "follower"? What would it look like to stand up for someone who was being bullied, who couldn't defend them self?
What is real friendship? Is there someone in our life we should extend real friendship to? What would that look like?
What did those who loved Radio receive from him?
What is regret? How can we learn from past mistakes or missed opportunities to help? How might have Radio's life played out had Coach Jones not extended friendship? How did his friendship change Radio's life?
How do forgiveness, and mercy manifest in this story?
Forgiveness is the renunciation or cessation of resentment, indignation or anger as a result of a perceived offense, disagreement, or mistake, or ceasing to demand punishment or restitution
Mercy : compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, an enemy, or other person in one's power; compassion, pity, or benevolence.
This movie as of the date of this post is available on Netflix instant streaming.
Enjoy your family time,
Jessica
