14-year old violinist Emily (Evan Rachel Wood) offers an exclusive service for
neighborhood kids. For an affordable 50-cents each, she'll listen to secrets and
conceal broken household items, which is a great way for to avoid getting
grounded. But when the secrets get too unruly, can she remain confidential or
squeal to the dozens of unsuspecting parents? That's Emily's dilemma in Little
Secrets, a 7th Heaven-like parable aimed towards the WB generation.
While the film has elements to keep adults interested as well, it'll mainly
appeal to teens who'll be too busy buying tickets for XXX to care about
Disney-channel suburban do-gooders that don't resemble any teenagers I've ever
met.
What high-school freshman would rather spend their summer at home honing their
instrumental skills than enjoy summer camp with friends? Emily is such a girl.
Teaming up with Phillip (Michael Angarano), the new kid on the block and
next-door neighbor, the two form a close friendship to prevent summer boredom.
But Phillip is two years younger than his cooties-carrying friend, which makes
way for his tennis playing 15-year old brother, David (David Gallagher of WB's
7th Heaven). A love triangle between Emily and the two brothers would be
interesting, but director Blair Treau opts to tell a moralistic tale.
For a harmless family film, with an expected positive message, Little Secrets
has its mature moments that deal with such topics as underage drinking
(uncommon for a PG flick). Actually, it's surprising the movie received its soft
rating when in one scene, Phillip asks another kid, "Are you high?"
Although the question is asked rhetorically, parents might find such language
objective and unsuitable for their child. After all, this is a movie
specifically designated for parent-child viewing.
With its compilation of talented young actors, and a standout performance by
Wood (also playing Al Pacino's daughter in this week's Simone), Little
Secrets does have some treats for those who've already gone through puberty.
Angarano, who played young William in Almost Famous, does an amusing
out-of-nowhere breakdance after learning a Mozart tune. Vivica A. Fox has a
short part as Emily's violin teacher, making us wonder how such an actress goes
from playing alongside Will Smith to settling for unnoticeable roles.
Though there are mature themes involved, such as Emily dealing with her pregnant
parents and the effects a younger sibling will have, for the parent-child
audience, this movie is relatively enjoyable and less painful than what kids
drag their moms and dads to see; surely no more so than Pokemon. Despite
the handful of laughable clichés, Little Secrets serves its purpose as
an acceptable family outing.
-Copyright 2002 by Shaun
Sages