3 Stars — Inspiring
The timing of the Rev. Fred Rogers (Tom Hanks) becoming the iconic televangelist to children was providential. Called to use the developing medium of television to speak to children, this Presbyterian minister began the show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” in 1962.
Working with experts in educational psychology and religious education, the show became one of the most effective ways to speak with children about their feelings and experiences. From war, to death, to divorce, to injustice, Rogers spoke through puppets and songs and helped a generation of people grow both wiser and more kind. Although this public life is well known, this is not the story told by director Marielle Heller in “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”
Based on a screenplay by Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster, this film re-creates a transformative relationship that Rogers created with hurting Esquire journalist Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys). Based lightly on award-winning writer Tom Junod, whose 1998 article titled “Can You Say … Hero?,” the impact that Rogers had on changing the pessimistic perspective of Junod is the theme of the film.
Vogel doesn’t like people. His skill as an observer of the human condition as well as his tendency to point out the failings of others had gotten him the acclaim of his profession. The problem was that now no one would let him interview them. Thus, when the editor of Esquire (Wendy Makkena) is putting together an issue on “heroes,” the only person who will allow Vogel to interview them is Rogers. What Vogel doesn’t know is that Rogers not only had read all of his articles but truly is a hero in the work of God.
We won’t spoil the journey that both men take together, but it is authentic. From the pain and anger that Vogel carries to the compassion and gentleness this pastor provides, and the journey to become who God created, Vogel is nourished by Rogers over a period of time, creating a true friendship.
The ministry of Rogers is presented in its kindness and acceptance, only revealing momentarily Rogers’ prayer life and his study of Scripture. Rogers does not invite Vogel to his church nor does he come at the relationship with such a purpose. He simply loves as God loves and leaves the rest in God’s hands. This choice to care for people rather than “build a church” is the choice of most pastors in their calling.
The central theme of the film is forgiveness and creates a true understanding of both how difficult it is and yet how necessary. As the theme song of the TV show explains, it will truly be a beautiful day in all neighborhoods when love and acceptance, and apology and forgiveness become our shared way of life. We join the Rev. Rogers in that prayer.
Discussion
» In describing his life and the transforming friendship, Junod said: “Fred was a guy who was very specific about his vision. He wanted to make a sacred space out of what he regarded as a rich but toxic medium, which is television. And now there are mediums that are nothing but toxic. I think all the time, what would Fred do about Twitter?” Do you experience “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” as “sacred space”? Why do you answer as you do?
» The United Methodist Church has created a study guide to go along with the film. Do you think a work of art needs a study guide in order to fully receive it? For example, do you find these questions designed for such a purpose helpful or unnecessary?
» Although the addition of a conflict with his father is added to Vogel’s version of the tale, it is a powerful story. Is there a conflict in your family that needs forgiveness?
— Cinema in Focus is a social and spiritual movie commentary. Hal Conklin is a former mayor of Santa Barbara and Denny Wayman is the retired pastor of Free Methodist Church of Santa Barbara and lead superintendent of Free Methodist Church in Southern California. For more reviews, visit www.cinemainfocus.com, or follow them on Twitter: @CinemaInFocus. The opinions expressed are their own.