CS Weekly Archive > DVD of the Day > 9/02/05

A Winner

by danny munso

Because of Winn-Dixie

Joan Singleton
Based on the novel by Kate DiCamillo

Despite the presence of an adorable canine and a hard-nosed little girl, you shouldn't take Because of Winn-Dixie for your basic girl-with-dog flick. Disguised as a sweet tale of 10-year-old Opal (Annasophia Robb) and her newfound dog, the film is actually a layered story of family and faith. As Opal explores her new Florida town, she comes across an eclectic group of people including a guitar-toting ex-con (singer Dave Matthews) and a wizened, elderly crone (Cicely Tyson), all the while trying to break through to her father (Jeff Daniels), the town preacher, who refuses to discuss Opal's mother and their shaky past. What results is a surprisingly wise tale that turns incredibly touching toward its climax, connecting the characters in wonderful ways. It also touches on adult themes in delicate but enlightening ways, whether it's Opal comforting a classmate still grieving over her brother's death or an ex-alcoholic confronting her past. Because of Winn-Dixie was certainly made for children, but everyone can enjoy this family film that's wonderfully sentimental, but never sappy.

Because of Winn-Dixie
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment
Rated PG; 106 min.
$29.98

Buy it now for only $20.99 (save 30%)

Danny Munso graduated from film school in 2004 and can currently be found on his computer working on one of his many half-written screenplays. Or, more likely, he's on the Internet checking the scores of his beloved Bay Area sports teams.

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