Buddy

From the moment Buddy stepped into frame I knew him. His name wasn't Buddy then but I knew him, forty seven years ago. The two teen-age girls a row behind me knew him too. It's hard to keep a screech to yourself you know. As I looked around the theater it became apparent that the three of us weren't the only ones who recognized this kid. It was happening. Each of us wearing our own secret smile, was settling in to watch this little eight year old boy take his first turn at solving a problem which many of us still struggle with today. I was transfixed. Here was a coming of age story you never out grow. No doubt about it, this poignant movie is about kids for kids but really, who reading this review has forgotten the name of their first buddy.

I have a nephew about the same age as the film's star who coincidently finds himself with a similar problem brought on by totally different circumstances. He's not handling it well. I suggested to my sister that she take her son to see BUDDY and to call me the day after. Just as I expected the movie helped open up a dialog between the two of them.

I won't go so far as to prescribe this wonderful movie. I'm saying go see it for the sheer joy and fun of it. And fun it is. Then pass it on. It's the story we all want to see.