The Adventures of Ociee Nash

After seeing The Adventures of Ociee Nash for the third time with audiences of children of all ages, their parents, and adults without children, I am convinced of the power of this film to entertain and educate many. Hearing the laughter, the clapping, and even a few sobs, I knew that this film had the secret ingredient that makes people love it...a heart. As an adult without children, seeing Ociee made me nostalgic for the family films of my youth, the ones that were wholesome, sweet, and moral. In an age where filmmakers and studios resort to the lowest means to attract the attention of theatergoers, particularly the youth, The Adventures of Ociee Nash takes the high road and relies solely on a great story and great filmmaking. Kudos to those responsible for this treasure for the ages.

The movie is a story about a young girl coming of age around 1900 in the South. It plays the tale straight, without winking to the audience. A wonderful independent film without any apologies. The characters are well developed. The cast is quite good and engaging. The dialogue is well written and delivers some important lessons about life. The leading young actress has a terrific screen presence. She shows a great deal of potential for future endeavors. The film is beautifully photographed and very polished. A live action feature which is a great alternative to the usual animation product the film studios create for children. Parents will be entertained as well.

The Adventures of Ociee Nash is a welcome respite from the the majority of children's movies these days. It is a quiet movie with an uplifting message. While it may seem geared to girls, my 10 year old son, was just as enthused about the movie as my 6 year-old daughter. My daughter has frequently said she needs to "find her courage", just like Ociee. In addition to a compelling story-line, I enjoyed the costumes, and beautiful cinematography. The lead, Sklyer Day is a delight, who finds her voice as the movie progresses. I especially likes the "neighborhood" boys who Ociee and her friend meet at the creek - this scene seemed an good real depiction of the age old question - Can girls do everything that boys can - sure they can! We also like the train sequence and the opportunity it provided for discussion after the movie about the time frame during which the movie takes place.

There aren't enough movies being made that are both appropriate, and entertaining for my entire family. The Adventures of Ociee Nash was both. The basic story, featuring a female "Tom Sawyer" type character was a classic tale with a beautiful example of what family really means. This movie touches the heart. While it may not be as polished as a big budget film, the costumes, sets and cinematography were excellent. Historical characters peppered throughout the film add humor and education. I would love to have this movie in my home library. I would also feel very comfortable giving it as a gift. Little kids, grand parents and everyone in between will enjoy this sweet and funny story.

Parents take their kids by droves to the latest Disney or Pixar films, and other high production value movies that basically just stimulate hyperactivity in kids. That's okay, but parents should give their kids a balanced diet by also taking them to see movies like Ociee Nash that are a little bit closer to the world that they live in, with simpler, thought provoking situations that a child can identify with. The theater that I saw Ociee in during a Saturday matinee had lots of small children in the audience. They were quiet as can be and seemed completely engaged in the story. I knew they were watching because they would occasionally laugh or comment at something that one of the characters said, indicating that they were actually listening to the dialogue! Not bad for a movie that actually has some redeeming value to it. The movie shows how a young person can overcome adversity in their life through courage and love, and that by doing so they can have a positive effect on the lives of the people around them.

For adults the movie offers a quirky charm and a gentle touch which is not only rare, but virtually extinct in Hollywood. Watching this movie with your kids will do you some good too.