Watch Simon Birch

Simon Birch is a heartwarming and uplifting movie that explores the themes of childhood, friendship, faith, and tragedy. The movie is based on the novel "A Prayer for Owen Meany" by John Irving, and it follows the life of Simon Birch, a young boy with a rare genetic condition that stunts his growth, making him much smaller than his peers. Despite the physical challenges he faces, Simon is a spirited and optimistic child who dreams of becoming a hero and making a difference in the world.

The story is set in the small town of Gravestown, Maine, in the 1960s, and it centers around Simon's friendship with his best friend Joe Wenteworth, played by Joseph Mazzello. Joe is a typical kid who comes from a dysfunctional family, and he struggles with his own identity and place in the world. However, he finds solace and refuge in Simon's company, and the two become inseparable friends who go on many adventures and misadventures together.

One of the main themes of the movie is faith, as Simon is a deeply religious child who believes that God has a plan for him, and that he is destined to do something great. He often finds himself at odds with the local Reverend Russell, played by David Strathairn, who is skeptical of Simon's grandiose claims and unconventional approach to his faith. However, Simon remains steadfast in his beliefs, and he continues to find ways to make an impact in his community.

Another important theme of the movie is tragedy, as Simon faces a lot of adversity and hardship throughout his young life. He loses his parents in a car accident, and he struggles to find acceptance and understanding from the world around him. However, he learns to lean on his faith and his friendship with Joe, and he becomes a symbol of hope and inspiration for those around him.

One of the standout performances in the movie comes from Ian Michael Smith, who plays Simon Birch with a remarkable blend of humor, intelligence, and heart. Despite his physical limitations, Simon is a fully realized character who is both relatable and charming. Joseph Mazzello also shines as Joe Wenteworth, and he delivers a nuanced and emotional performance as a young boy who is struggling to find his place in the world. Ashley Judd also gives a strong performance as Joe's mother, who is dealing with her own demons and struggles to connect with her son.

Overall, Simon Birch is a beautiful and poignant movie that will leave viewers feeling uplifted and inspired. It deals with heavy themes in a sensitive and thoughtful way, and it delivers a powerful message about the importance of friendship, faith, and hope in times of despair. The movie is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and it is a must-see for anyone who loves a good story about overcoming adversity and finding your place in the world.

Simon Birch is a 1998 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 39.