The Boyhood of John Muir

In 1892, John Muir, protector of wilderness lands and conservator of natural beauty became the gentle spokesperson and first president of the much respected and nationally renowned Sierra Club. This live action biopic tells the story of Muir, (wonderfully played by redheaded-doe-eyed newcomer Gary Hollywood) as a young man, his natural curiosity about wildlife in the American frontier (he emigrated from Scotland), his passion for inventions and ‘time saving devices' (like the ‘loafer chair' that fires a blank into your butt if you sit too long, or the bed that flips you on the floor at 6:00 a.m.), and the difficult relationship he shared with his deeply religious and troubled father. An excellent musical score, lovely cinematography, and a well-told story make this a wonderful (albeit pricey) addition to the relatively small world of quality family viewing titles. Recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (N. Plympton)