Watch Martian Child

The 2007 movie Martian Child is a heartwarming drama that explores the themes of love, loss, and acceptance. Based on the novella "The Martian Child" by David Gerrold, the film stars John Cusack as David Gordon, a science fiction writer who has recently lost his wife and is struggling to cope with his grief. After deciding to adopt a child, he meets a peculiar six-year-old boy named Dennis (Bobby Coleman) who claims to be from Mars.

David is initially skeptical of Dennis's claims but starts to believe that the boy truly thinks he is an alien. As they bond through a series of challenges, David begins to understand that Dennis's unique perspective on life is what makes him special. The relationship between David and Dennis takes center stage, as the two of them navigate the ups and downs of becoming a father and son.

As David tries to figure out how to connect with Dennis and understand his behavior, he enlists the help of his friend Harlee (Amanda Peet), an adoption agency worker who provides him with insights into Dennis's past. Through flashbacks, we learn that Dennis was abandoned by his birth mother because she believed him to be a "weirdo" due to his quirks and behaviors.

Throughout the film, David struggles with the idea of being a parent to a child who is so different from others. He worries about Dennis's ability to integrate into social settings and make friends, and he is constantly questioning whether he is equipped to handle the challenges that come with raising a non-traditional child.

Despite these fears, David remains committed to being there for Dennis and tries to provide him with a sense of stability and love. Bobby Coleman's performance as Dennis is a highlight of the film, as he manages to convey a sense of innocence and wonder while also making the character's neurodivergent traits feel authentic and respected.

Overall, Martian Child is a touching film that delves into the complexities of being a parent and the importance of accepting and celebrating differences. Cusack and Coleman have great chemistry, and their interactions are both heartwarming and believable. The film's themes of love, loss, and acceptance resonate deeply, and it is sure to tug at the heartstrings of viewers. If you're in the mood for an uplifting and emotional story, Martian Child is a great choice.

Martian Child is a 2007 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 48.