John Cusack gives a wonderful performance in the new movie “Martian Child”. Cusack plays best-selling science fiction author David Gordon, who has recently lost his wife and is now considering adopting a child. The child he ends-up choosing, named Dennis, (and played by Bobby Coleman) is a little unusual because he thinks he’s from Mars.
Dennis has a difficult time getting used to being in a family, going to school and life on Earth in general (don’t forget he thinks he’s from Mars). It’s David’s job to allow him to be himself while also trying to get Dennis to be like other 6-year old human boys.
I liked “Martian Child” a lot. Both the story and the acting are believable. There are plenty of laughs and some serious moments. The film does try to get to you emotionally and it did for me, but not too much.
John Cusack’s real-life sister Joan plays his sister. Amanda Peet and Anjelica Houston are also in the cast.
“Martian Child” is rated PG for some adult themes and a few bad words. It’s a perfect film for parents and kids (probably 8 and over) to see together.
On “The Official Kid Critic Report Card”, Martian Child gets a B.
The movie is based on an award-winning short-story by Sci-Fi writer David Gerrold. After seeing the film my dad and I are now going to read the story.