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Simon Birch

Why is it that I always like the movies made from John Irving stories better than I like the John Irving story? Perhaps because Mr. Irving has great ideas and great character, but you have to poke through pages and pages of prose to find them. This 1998 film based on ‘A Prayer for Owen Meany’ tells the story of two young boys who are best friends -- perhaps because they are both misfits. Joe (Joseph Mazzello) is the illegitimate son of a beautiful free spirit (Ashley Judd) who’s never divulged the name of his father. Tiny Simon Birch (Ian Michael Smith) is a dwarf with many physical ailments who despite being born to cold parents, has a soaring faith in his own destiny.

Set in a 1960s New England town, centered around the church, the film is playful and nostalgic. When Joe’s mother dies after being hit by the only baseball ever hit by Simon Birch, the two boys set out to find the identity of Joe’s father. Throughout the course of the film, Simon reiterates his belief that God gave him his disabilities for a reason and that he has a purpose. The movie is a touching tribute to the power of friendship, hope -- and most especially faith.

Make no mistake, if you are a fan of John Irving, this adaptation isn’t likely to please you. It takes so many liberties with the story that the name change was necessary. However, Simon Birch has a certain charm despite several conspicuous flaws -- the ending is contrived and melodramatic. While Ian Michael Smith is cute enough to make up for the cynical nature of his character, his acting leaves a lot to be desired. Also, the rigid nature of the minister (David Strathairn), who acts as a counterpoint to Simon’s rambunctiousness is TOO rigid to be a believable love interest for Joe’s mother.

The all star supporting cast includes Ashley Judd, Oliver Platt, David Strathairn, Dana Ivey and Jan Hooks. Bring a handkerchief along because this movie is a tear jerker. There are no additional materials included on the DVD.

Written by: Joyce Faulkner

Reviewers Rating: 7
Reader's Rating: 9.11
Reader's Votes: 28

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