I AM SAM (Theatrical Release USA 2001)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.8|5.0 Starsìììì

I Am Sam explores the difficult dilemma of a parent with developmental disabilities caretaking a daughter with high mental aptitude. Sean Penn carries the role of Sam with remarkable skill. Dakota Fanning is a natural as she sturdily and loyally endeavors to stay with her father. Michelle Pfeiffer and Dianne Wiest also play strong parts with exceptional interpretation. It’s a Best Film List pick for everyone in the family and provokes good discussion afterward.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

It is difficult when you have the IQ of a 7-year-old, try to hold a decent job, and then find, despite all your efforts, you are going to lose your child by court order to child services.

Additional Thanks

Thank You to Director Jessie Nelson for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Michael De Luca, Claire Rudnick Polstein, andDavid Rubin. for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Sam Dawson (Sean Penn), Rita Harrison Williams (Michelle Pfeiffer), Lucy Diamond Dawson (Dakota Fanning), Annie Cassell (Dianne Wiest), Margaret Calgrove (Loretta Devine), Mr. Turner (Richard Schiff), Randy Carpenter (Laura Dern), Brad (Brad Silverman), and Joe (Joseph Rosenberg).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. It’s a not to be missed movie that broadly and deeply explores its subject matter—excellent drama.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers