Legions of ethnically diverse kids saying the darndest soundbites are exquisitely filmed in this Oprah Winfrey hosted look at the harsh realities and joys of childhood. Curiously, the recollections of two adults held the most interest for me: author Laura Cunningham (Sleeping Arrangements), who recalls the "pure romance of being with my mother" as a child (she would later lose her mother to cancer), and author Brent Staples (Parallel Time), who astutely dissects why he's a jumpy, cunning individual who is "able to negotiate dicey situations" but can't shake a constant sense of temporary-ness. It turns out that, as a ten-year-old boy, Staples was the "economic ambassador" for his family as he dealt with the gas, water and electric companies along with various irate shop owners when his parents failed to pay their bills. Frequently on the move, and often times left alone to care for his six brothers and sisters, the responsibility (and sense of panic) was overwhelming, and his childhood experiences continue to shadow his adult life. Both heartwarming and gut-wrenching, About Us is a mixed bag, indeed, offering keen insights into the nature of childhood, even as the filmmaker succumbs to the temptation to have children be angels, saints and wise old souls instead of naturally celebrating the beauty and magic of childhood. Still, this is sure to be popular. Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H, C, P. (N. Plympton)
About Us: The Dignity of Children with Oprah Winfrey
(1998) 94 min. $19.95. Steeplechase Entertainment, Corp. PPR. Color cover. Closed Captioned. Vol. 14, Issue 3
About Us: The Dignity of Children with Oprah Winfrey
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