I saw this film on September 20th, 2007 in Indianapolis. I am one of the judges for the Heartland Film Festival’s Truly Moving Picture Award. A Truly Moving Picture “…explores the human journey by artistically expressing hope and respect for the positive values of life.” Heartland gave that award to this film.This is a fantasy tale of a magical toy store. It’s big. It’s weird. The toys perform! And there are live animals too! But above all it’s magical. The owner (Dustin Hoffman) is 243 years old and has had the store for 113 years. But he has decided to “depart” and leave it to his store manager (Natalie Portman). He, in the meantime, has hired a straight-laced accountant (Jason Bateman) they affectionately call “mutant” to help out. And they have one other retail clerk, a nine year-old boy.
The humans are as motley as the toys and animals!
All the humans have issues. The store manager was a child piano prodigy, but now she can’t compose or perform. The accountant only knows how to work and has no life. The nine year-old boy has no friends. How are they to manage when Mr. Magorium “departs”? And…that’s the story.
The cinematography and sets are lavish and gorgeous. The acting is superb. Realism and fantasy are a blur.
Can the remaining threesome rely on each other? Can they grow into their new roles when the owner “departs”? Can their hope sustain them? Can they be optimistic? See for yourself!
FYI – There is a Truly Moving Pictures web site where there is a listing of past Truly Moving Picture Award winners that are now either at the theater or available on video.
