Movies, literacy and thought.
My 15 year old daughter persuaded me to have some ‘bonding time’ by watching a movie together.
I don’t do TV/movies well. My concentration sucks. Unless I know the story already; a movie I have already seen; or based on a book I’ve already read.
But, sometimes, motherhood requires us to do what we would rather not. And, if watching a movie constitutes bonding then I’ve got off lightly. She could have asked that I go ice-skating with her. Or clothes shopping. Ugghh.
When told that Hugh Jackman starred in X-Men, I gave in quite easily and salivated throughout the film.
From there, it was easy to persuade me to watch ‘The Hunger Games’. I had read the series so was pretty sure I would enjoy the film.
Impressed with Jennifer Lawrence’s acting in the above, it was an undemanding transition to ‘Silver Lining’s Playbook’.
With recommendations now flowing fast and furious, I was persuaded to extend bonding to ‘Iron Man’. My daughter was horrified when I compared Robert Downey Jnr. to my husband.
‘Oh, God, do I fancy my Dad?’
Negative reassurances had to be put in place. The similarities were slight!
Days and weeks have passed and still the bonding takes place with popcorn, sweets and movies I have a slight inclination to watch.
Surprisingly, I have closed the lid of my laptop and entered into this world with my daughter while she ‘cooried up’ beside me and nuzzled her enjoyment.
One of the movies we watched together was based on the book, ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ by Stephen Chbosky.
The most memorable and heartfelt moment is when the principal character reads a poem written by Osoanon Nimuss, entitled, ‘Absolutely Nothing’.
Tears and snotters.
But, what does this have to do with literacy and thought.
Well, when your children see a movie and are moved to read the book and then want to discuss its contents, I call that a score.
Daughter now wants a movie of, ‘The Fault In Our Stars’ by John Green.
So, Hollywood, listen out.
The literary aspirations of our children are in your hands as well as those of parents and teachers.
scottishmomus 