Simon Birch knew God had a plan for him. He was an instrument of God and was to become a hero. Despite having Morquio Syndrome (a rare enzyme disorder that causes bone, tissue, etc. to grow slowly), Simon (played by Ian Michael Smith who has the syndrome in real life) trys to live his life as a "normal" honest sort of kid. Smith does an inspiring job as a new actor, but is it really acting when you live the part?

Simon's best friend is Joe Wenteworth. They were a pair of outcasts, not so fondly nicknamed the granite mouse (Simon) and the Gravestown bastard (Joe), who together formed a friendship that was very touching. Joe (played by Joseph Mazzello) did an outstanding job in this film and is one of the finest young actors in the biz. He can handle all the range of emotions required for this part quite well.

There are many likable characters in this film. Rebecca Wenteworth (Ashley Judd) and Oliver Platt (Ben Goodrich) stood out for me. Their compassion was bondless and inspiring.

I enjoyed the scenes of the wind blowing the trees and the deer that always seemed to appear at turning points in plot of the film. It added a magical quality to the film. The wind blows, the deer grazes, and life goes on.

Truly one of the finest movies I have ever seen. Simon Birch is a magical, honest, awesome film!

My rating A or 9.8

Cast...

Ian Michael Smith.... Simon Birch, Joseph Mazzello.... Joe Wenteworth, Ashley Judd.... Rebecca Wenteworth, Oliver Platt.... Ben Goodrich, David Strathairn.... Rev. Russell, Dana Ivey.... Grandmother Wenteworth, Beatrice Winde.... Hilde Grove, Jan Hooks.... Miss Leavey, Cecilley Carroll.... Marjorie, Sumela Kay.... Ann, Jim Carrey.... Adult Joe Wenteworth

Directed by Mark Steven Johnson

Writing credits: Mark Steven Johnson (screen version), based on the John Irving novel "A Prayer For Owen Meany". Irving wrote "The World According To Garp" another of my favs.

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