August Keller

@WritesAugust

Centered around an undeniable icon, Won’t You Be My Neighbor? does Fred Rodgers justice as it captures emotional magic. Even stone hearts will soften viewing a film that appeals so naturally to the child in us all. This documentary is driven by heartfelt interviews, precise pacing & organization, and a provoking soundtrack. Some criticss may notice portions of Won’t You Be My Neighbor? feeling like bland filler but, overall, the film provides everything audiences are hoping to get from a project like this.

From concrete information to swelling sentiments, Won’t You Be My Neighbor? certainly accomplishes everything it sets out to do. However, while Fred Rodgers himself is captivating topic, this particular film about him sometimes feels like an afterthought. Because there is not much creative spice coming from Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, it feels somewhat flat and slightly forgettable. It is strange that a film so moving can also feel plain but it is because Won’t You Be My Neighbor? relies a bit too much on exalting a hero rather than examining his works further. In the end, Won’t You Be My Neighbor? is clearly a good film that plays it too safe to be great.

Writing: 7/10

Direction: 7/10

Cinematography: 6/10

Acting: 8/10

Editing: 8/10

Sound: 7/10

Score/Soundtrack: 8/10

Production Design: 7/10

Casting: 8/10

Effects: 6/10

Overall Score: 7.2/10