kraigpdx This is a cute and sweet movie without all the heavy handed film tricks that turn most films about children looking like sappy greeting card. There is a nice gritty quality to the filming style, even down to the bad wigs and unflattering camera angles. Bruno's fascination with wearing a dress is not about any gender identity issues but is a spiritual quest for his sense of individuality. After all in Bruno's own words "the Pope wears a dress". So, while yes there is a clear message about having a unique identity, it is layered in a spiritual message as well. Bruno's lot in life had been cast for him and it was what he did with being pegged as an outsider that is the inspiration behind this film. The cast is all top notch even as their rolls are more subdued and less glamorous then other films. I would highly recommend this film for anyone looking for a 'family' movie that is a little off the beaten track.

Matt Perron I liked most of the characters and I liked the plot well enough, but I feel like they never really could choose a theme or a point. By far the worst part of this movie is Gary Sinese. The character is god awful, like literally, at one point he leaves his child, not caring if he has a place to stay. And what's up with his opera singing arc? It was weird, bad and anyway, since when is it girly to like opera, I mean sure, as a kid it may not be the best way to win popularity at school, but I would hardly call it "sissy" behavior as this movie want to shove down our throats. His acting is just terrible as well, He's either wooden as a post or shouting about his "sissy" son in the least believable and most ridiculous way possible. Anyway, aside from Sinese, who I expect better from, the movie is okay. The best part about it is the relationship between the two kids, who provide fantastic, honest grade school kid fun and friendship. It's a mixed bag but I'm glad I watched it, if you're looking for Oscar gold here, I'd look elsewhere, but if you're willing to cringe a little especially at Gary Sinese, I think you'll find something to like here.

shneur This movie does not come up to the level of "Ma Vie en Rose," but then no one really expects that of an American film. While the characters, including Bruno himself, may need to search for politically correct "excuses" for his cross-dressing, we the audience can focus on the reactions, both supportive and hostile, of the adults around him. Alex D. Linz was an excellent choice for this difficult role, being about as seasoned an actor as one can be at age 11. He performs outstandingly: not pseudo-adult, but with enormous strength of his convictions. Shirley MacLaine also is both credible and creditable as the supportive adult in Bruno's life. I suppose I'm just an artistic philistine, but I can't hold it against a movie that it actually has a storyline to move things along. Of course one wonders what will happen to Bruno later on -- and perhaps some American film-maker will one day get brave enough to make a sequel.

tristanbills I had my doubts at first, but as the movie progressed I was in awe of the story being told.The box-art says it all, totally original. Believe me, there are times in your life when you just want to do something different, or a time when you just don't care what people think.I would recommend this movie to everyone.Alex D. Linz is great in this movie. Showing unsurpassed talent for a boy his age.