In a desolated ranch in 1960s Texas, there lived two old brothers, Hub and Garth, starred by veteran actors Robert Duvall and Michael Caine. One day, an unexpected and unknown guest, Walter, whom nobody cared, came to their ranch. He was the old brothers’ nephew, played by Haley Joel Osment. The secrets of the brothers were revealed to Walter as he stayed with them ad his own uncertain future began to change. Tim McCanlies was the director of this comedy and he also wrote the story.
The plot of Secondhand Lions was, indeed, ordinary. It was just about a boy being sent to stay for vacation with his great uncles whom he had never met, because of his selfish mother. And as time passed by, a bond of friendship and trust forged between the uncles and the nephew. But what really matters is the condiments of the movie; the adventure of uncle Hub and uncle Garth; the stashed money; the lion they bought …… Because as the movie developed, those were the things that changed Walter, Hub and Garth. Walter knew that his mother didn’t know what was the best to do for him. So could he depend on his uncles?
This movie is an all-round one as it puts action and adventure, love and romance, and comedy together. Kids love the adventure, while adults love the romance. The combination makes the movie a good one for all ages. Everyone would also love the bizarre but amusing ending.
The acting of Duvall and Caine was perfectly fine. However, Osment who played Walter was exaggerating. When he was required to show deep emotion, it then became clear that he was acting.
Secondhand Lions is an above average because it leaves audience deep messages that can only be realized after thinking deeply. The story is engaging and most importantly, it is packed. Overall, Secondhand Lions is an enjoyable family film which deserves a high recommendation. (Naomi)