I truly enjoyed this film from beginning to end. Somewhat predictable, just enough twist to keep it fresh. Keke Palmer as Akeelah was brilliant, hopefully we'll see her grow up in future films. Laurence Fishburn did an excellent job as well, although I thought his character was a little too rigid, or "clenched" at first. As the story develops we find out why, it wasn't just over the top acting but a result of the character's past. A relief.
My biggest complaint, the clichés and stereotypes were overwhelming. The Asian father, emotionless and only focused on the honor of winning... All of Akeelah's family... The good son in the military, and the son running with the wrong crowd. The late Father who rose above his surroundings to be a better person, the workaholic single Mom... etc, etc. While all of these things are facts of real life, they seemed over done a bit. I was grateful that the well to do friend (Javier) she made was Hispanic, not white. One movie cliché they skipped, to a point.
The story was good enough to overcome my complaints, but I think it could have been better if it was just brought down a notch. As another reviewer wrote, the Karate Kid came to mind for me as well.
Anyway, a great film of all audiences, would be a great family or date movie. Hope you enjoy it as I did.
My biggest complaint, the clichés and stereotypes were overwhelming. The Asian father, emotionless and only focused on the honor of winning... All of Akeelah's family... The good son in the military, and the son running with the wrong crowd. The late Father who rose above his surroundings to be a better person, the workaholic single Mom... etc, etc. While all of these things are facts of real life, they seemed over done a bit. I was grateful that the well to do friend (Javier) she made was Hispanic, not white. One movie cliché they skipped, to a point.
The story was good enough to overcome my complaints, but I think it could have been better if it was just brought down a notch. As another reviewer wrote, the Karate Kid came to mind for me as well.
Anyway, a great film of all audiences, would be a great family or date movie. Hope you enjoy it as I did.