James M8

This was one of my favorite books while growing up, and I was thrilled to see that someone had filmed it. Like most people who see a movie after they've read the novel, I was disappointed in some of the discrepancies; if you have also read and loved the book, you'll be surprised at the complete omission of Janey, Tim's blind sister, and at the end of the tale, which is considerably different (and much cheerier in tone). The cast was well chosen, except for Perdita, who I'd always pictured as much smaller, more vulnerable and haunted-looking. Actress Sammy Glenn is very appealing, but seems far too robust and cheerful to be playing this sensitive, frightened, lonely young girl.