Powerful Film With Powerful Message
20 April 2001
Backwards: The Riddle of Dyslexia is a powerful film with a powerful message. As an elementary school teacher I have often turned to River Phoenix as the dyslexic Brian Ellsworth to help soothe troubled parents. It is a touching and tender film that treats a serious issue with great sensitivity.

What I love best about this movie is that I sometimes find myself laughing and crying at the same time. The interaction between Stephanie Evans as Kim Stone and Brian Ellsworth is after school comedy at its best. My students roared with delight when Stephanie aptly described the school lunch menu. "Some choice! Stew, glue, or garbage!" A classic after school line that will be remembered for ages.

This is also a fabulous film for fans of the Phoenix boys. To see them at this young age is quite a treat. Their prowess as actors was evident despite their youthful appearances. It is also the first in a long line of shining appearances for actress Stephanie Evans. Most will remember her for her work as a model in weekly print ads. My personal favorite is her work selling the "Big Button Phone." To conclude I would highly recommend this film to anyone who loves high drama mixed with deep belly laughs. A must have for all educators and for fans of River and Leaf Phoenix.
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