'Odd Life Of Timothy Green' :Movie Review

Cast: Jennifer Garner, Joel Ederton 

CJ Adams, Odeya Rush

Director: Peter Hedges

Writers: Peter Hedges (screenplay)

Ahmed Zappa (story)

Rating: PG

Release Date: August 15, 2012

 'The Odd Life of Timothy Green' is a very wholesome family movie that you would expect coming from Disney but with a twist. A story about a sweet and hopeful that have been trying for years to have a child of their own. They are unable to, 

The opening of the film we see a happily married couple Jim and Cindy Green (Jennifer Garner and Joel Edgerton) having an interview at the United States Adoption Services. Having to state their case regarding on how Timothy magically comes into their lives

Becoming clear that their hopes are dashed. Jim tries to cheer Cindy up. They being making a list of what qualities they want in their child. Before heading to bed the two putting all the papers in a box, burying  it in their garden.  

A freak storm blows in, leaving behind a true miracle a young boy named Timothy. When they first discover Timothy, they think he has ran away from home. But they quickly realize they have a hole in the ground. It was pretty clear on how this may be their dream come true. What makes Timothy so special, well he has leaves on his legs. They freak out at first but then immediately welcome him with open arms. 

The very adorable (CJ Adams) plays Timothy. He has problems like every other kid. Being bullied, a death in the family and having his first love.

I enjoyed the performance of very rough around the edges Joni (Odeya Rush) the sweet and innocent puppy love she and Timothy share was cute. I think the whole subplot of Jim needing to keep his job and not face getting laid off was dragged on a bit longer then necessary.Cindy has a lot on her plate as well. Having to deal with an over achieving, showoff sister Brenda (Rosemarie DeWitt) she makes it known that her life is so prefect. Having a boss (Dianne Wiest) that devalues you is less then helpful.

The pace of the movie moved pretty quickly. I found it rather odd that Timothy quickly referred to Cindy and Jim as "mom" and "dad". On the other end other subplots would drag.

I did understand how Jim and Cindy wanting to be the perfect parents, as unrealistic as that is. Trying to keep Timothy's secret to himself is a lot to deal with at such a young age. I did not understand why no one really questioned Timothy's sudden appearance (not even at school).

The cinematography was very pleasing to look at. Seeing that the Green's lived on a farm in Pennsylvania, lush trees and grass to play on. It set the ton for the entire movie.

It was not very clear on what exactly the moral of the story is. Is it Bullying? Adoption? Foster care? All of the above. That is what made me a bit confused overall.

As the movie progresses we see that Timothy beings to lose one leaf at a time. After he fulfills a personality trait his parent gave him.

Unfortunately, about half way through the movie I found myself not fully invested emotionally. just could predict what was going to happen in the end.

What I did enjoy was a very cute moment Jim and Cindy share with Timothy showing off his music skills. Cindy and Jim try a bit too hard to have Timothy be so "perfect". Instead of just letting him be a kid. Watching Timothy try to play soccer was a bit harsh, then on the flip side having Coach Cal (Common) bench you all season long is just plain mean.

Jim's job is hanging in the balance. The whole plot was my main issue.

Timothy having given his parents an idea that had potential to save his job.

Of course, Jim's boss Franklin (Ron Livingston) being a jerk tries to steal the idea from him. Leaving it that Timothy has to ultimately reveal his true self to the entire town.

The Green's get just a sample of what parenthood is. Timothy was that reason. All whilst, keeping a secret from his parents. Oh how and why he is losing leaves one by one.

'The Odd Life of Timothy Green' was predictable, sweet. Having an ending that was all wrapped up in a little bow. A family movie that you might just wait for the DVD release. I give 3 stars out of 5.