Alabama Moon (1:36) 2011

Alabama Moon is a fantastic children's movie based on the Walt Key book of the same name. Moon is an eleven year old boy who lives with father, an isolationist. They live in the most primitive conditions, trusting no one, with the only contact being a storekeeper. Two big events happen in Moon's life in a very short period of time. Land near their home in the Talladga National Forest is sold for development and Pap dies. As Moon leaves for Alaska as his Pap directed, he is taken in custody by the local constable. Moon ends up in Pinson, a boy's school/reformatory. Much against his Pap's teachings, Moon makes friends for the first time. Moon, Hal and Kit escape from Pinson and go back to the woods to live until spring. The authorities are now hot on their trail. The trio is doing well until Hal leaves to go live with his alcoholic father and Kit becomes very ill. Over time, Moon is beginning to doubt his father's thinking and must find his own way. Alabama Moon is a charming movie that is appropriate for upper elementary and middle school students. The characters are good hearted people with the exception of the Constable. The movie moves along, there is no inappropriate language or adult content. It reminds me of another movie Hoot with a similar theme. With several weeks left to summer vacation, my suggestion is that one night sit around with the family, make some popcorn, and watch the film. Everyone will enjoy the film and the family time.