Arriving just in time for Father’s day—“Imagine That”
is a touching and very funny cautionary tale about
a dad's need for balance between work and family.
In the film, corporate heavy hitter Evan Danielson
(played by Eddie Murphy) finds himself in the midst
of a career downturn. While (Yara Shahidi) his seven year old daughter (with whom he struggles to bond
after the divorce) retreats into an imaginary world
of her own; coincidentally holding the keys to Evan's
troubles. In the film, Murphy's transformation from
a self centered, work-obsessed financial executive to
a loving dad is believable, endearing and refreshing.
And although some of the antics as he courts the
favor of Olivia's financial guru-like imaginary friends
are a bit over the top, in the end audiences of all
ages will be moved by the genuine father /daughter
chemistry between the two stars. This film is a
specially refreshing treat for families with children 6
and up (in a sea of 3d – action packed space galactic
films of the season) and manages to successfully
convey real life lessons about the need for loving
relationships in our sometimes hurried world.
by Pamela Echols
