Holy Smokes!!

From this moment forward, I may be branded as unfortunately insipid and overly sentimental, but that's okay with me..

I happen to truly love this movie, which pleasantly surprises me. Disney's "The Kid" has a unique quality of believability that is neither contrived nor exaggerated, a factor that lends itself to an already humorous movie blended with a touching story.

Bruce Willis plays Russ Duritz, a highly focused, driven (translation: cold and calloused) image consultant who has successfully blocked out some of the most important events of his childhood and "risen above" them to become the man he is today. What he doesn't realize is that those events are the sole reason he's living a very emotionally unfulfilling existence, incomplete with no family (save his father and sister) and.. horror of all horrors.. no dog!

Two days before his 40th birthday, Duritz happens upon a very unlikely visitor in his highly secured home.. himself, at age (almost) 8! Played by Spencer Breslin (who actually made me laugh out loud several times), young Rusty's absurd appearance causes 'old' Russ to spin completely out of control with disbelief and exasperated helplessness at how to handle such an unwelcome, intrusive situation.

Willis and Breslin's interactions are sweetly funny and, at times, very emotional.. especially when Russ realizes that the kid is there for a distinct purpose; ultimately, to bring him some realization and healing concerning his past.. and to help him understand that there is so much more to life than what he's living. When the two find themselves having to explain their awkward situation to several friends, everyone takes the news rather calmly and continues as if this is nothing at all shocking or remotely unbelievable. And when the duo realizes what must be done to set past and future things right, you will root them on their way, cheering their successes and feeling their mutual sorrows.

With a cast supported by veterans Lily Tomlin (Willis' patient, yet mildly irritated assistant) and Jean Smart (an acquaintance on a flight who asks for image advice from Willis); and relative newcomer Emily Mortimer (Willis' co-worker and eventual love interest), this film combines star power with a nicely original, endearing story.

Leaving the theater, if "The Kid" has worked even a bit of its Disney magic, the viewer will leave contemplating things once forgotten from his own early years.. yet now fondly remembered. Take advantage of this "warm, fuzzy" film; and let me know how you like it.

Thanks for reading.