🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the heartfelt drama “A Boy Called Po,” directed by John Asher and written by Colin Goldman, viewers are taken on an emotional journey through the challenges faced by a young widower dad, David Wilson, as he navigates raising his autistic son, Patrick, who prefers to be called “Po.” The film sheds light on the stigmas associated with autism and the struggles of individuals on the spectrum, particularly children.
The story unfolds as David, portrayed by Christopher Gorham, copes with the loss of his wife to cancer, leaving him as the sole caregiver for Po, a gifted but challenged sixth-grader who finds it difficult to express his emotions and cope with the loss of his mother. As David and Po grapple with their grief and attempt to adjust to their new reality, they both retreat into their own emotional worlds, struggling to find connection and understanding.
Throughout the film, poignant moments between father and son tug at the heartstrings, showcasing the deep bond between them as they navigate the complexities of autism and grief. Doctors and therapists provide insight into various treatments and aspects of autism, offering valuable information to those unfamiliar with the condition.
Adding to the emotional depth of the film is the original score by the legendary Burt Bacharach, his first in 17 years, which enhances the storytelling and evokes powerful emotions in the audience. Po’s character, played by Julian Feder, takes viewers on a journey into his dream world, where he finds solace and comfort amidst the challenges he faces in reality.
“A Boy Called Po” is not just a movie; it is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through its portrayal of a father’s unwavering dedication to his son and a boy’s journey towards self-acceptance, the film delivers a powerful message of hope and understanding. It serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of autism lies a world of untapped potential and profound emotion, waiting to be seen and understood by those willing to look beyond the stereotypes.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Christopher Gorham, Julian Feder, Kaitlin Doubleday, Andrew Bowen, Caitlin Carmichael, Sean Gunn, Bryan Batt, Fay Masterson, Brian George
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Christopher Gorham | David Wilson |
| Julian Feder | Po |
| Kaitlin Doubleday | Amy |
| Andrew Bowen | Jack |
| Sean Gunn | Ben |
| Caitlin Carmichael | Amelia Carr |
| Bryan Batt | Randall Bane |
| Fay Masterson | Valerie |
| Brian George | Bill |
| Tristan Chase | Taylor Martz |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Grab your popcorn and get ready for an emotional rollercoaster ride with “A Boy Called Po”! Imagine a blend of heart-wrenching moments and heartwarming scenes, sprinkled with a touch of fantasy and a dash of reality. This movie is like a warm hug on a cold day, comforting yet stirring.
Directed by John Asher and based on a true story, “A Boy Called Po” delves into the life of Po Patrick, a gifted but challenged child who struggles to cope with the loss of his mother while battling autism. As his father, played by Christopher Gorham, grapples with grief and the daunting task of caring for his son, we witness a poignant tale unfold.
Plot and Themes:
The movie beautifully portrays the complexities of autism and the profound impact of loss on a family. Through Po’s escapades into his dream world, symbolized by serene beaches and lush forests, we explore themes of imagination, coping mechanisms, and the power of familial love.
Acting and Characters:
The performances in “A Boy Called Po” are nothing short of stellar. Christopher Gorham shines as the grieving father trying to connect with his son, while Julian Feder delivers a remarkable portrayal of Po’s inner struggles. Kaitlin Doubleday’s presence adds depth to the narrative, making the characters feel authentic and relatable.
Direction and Cinematography:
John Asher’s direction skillfully navigates between reality and fantasy, creating a visually captivating experience. The cinematography beautifully captures Po’s imaginative world, immersing viewers in its enchanting landscapes.
Score and Production Design:
The musical score in “A Boy Called Po” enhances every emotional beat, tugging at heartstrings effortlessly. The production design creates a seamless blend between reality and fantasy, adding layers to the storytelling.
Special Effects and Editing:
The special effects in the film transport us into Po’s dreamscapes with seamless transitions. The editing keeps the pacing engaging, allowing each scene to unfold naturally while maintaining emotional intensity.
Binge-watching Tips:
- Have tissues handy – you might need them!
- Pay attention to the subtle nuances in the interactions between characters.
- Reflect on how imagination can be both an escape and a source of strength.
Rating:
This heartfelt journey deserves a solid 8/10. “A Boy Called Po” is not just a movie; it’s an experience that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.
In conclusion, “A Boy Called Po” is a poignant exploration of love, loss, resilience, and imagination. It invites viewers to empathize with characters facing profound challenges while celebrating the power of human connection. So grab your loved ones, snuggle up under a cozy blanket, and let this touching tale tug at your heartstrings!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heartfelt portrayal of a father-son relationship | Some characters lack depth and nuance |
| Addresses themes of loss and coping with autism | Storyline may feel predictable at times |
| Well-made movie with emotional impact | Some dramatic detours in the plot |
| Realistic depiction of struggles faced by parents of autistic children | Multiple endings may confuse the audience |
Feedback
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A Boy Called Po (2016) - IMDb
- Awards
- 10 wins & 3 nominations
- Taylor Martz
- (as Tristian Chase)
Did you know
- TriviaThe inspiration to make the film came from the director’s son, who was diagnosed with autism. He considers the film as a love letter to his son.
- Quotes Po: Don’t be afraid daddy. David Wilson: Don’t be afraid of what, pal? Po: Don’t be afraid of me. Po: I don’t want people to be afraid of me. Po: Don’t be afraid of me, daddy. David Wilson: I’m not afraid of you. David Wilson: Daddy’s not afraid, not anymore
- jraymaggie
- May 3, 2017
- How long is A Boy Called Po?Powered by Alexa
DetailsBox office
- Budget
- $500,000 (estimated)
- Gross US & Canada
- $4,550
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $2,693
- Sep 3, 2017
- Gross worldwide
- $4,550
- Runtime1 hour 35 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.35 : 1
- Awards
-
A Boy Called Po - Wikipedia
A Boy Called Po(also known as) is a 2016 American drama film directed by John Asher and written by Colin Goldman, based on a true story starring Christopher Gorham, Julian Feder, and Kaitlin Doubleday. When his wife dies of cancer, an overworked engineer struggles to care for his son with autism. In response to bullying, the young boy regresses into a fantasy world escape. The score for the film was composed by Burt Bacharach.
Po
A Boy Called Po Directed by John Asher Screenplay by Colin Goldman Produced by John Asher Rod Hamilton
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Watch A Boy Called Po (2017) - Free Movies | Tubi
A Boy Called Po
When David Wilson’s young wife falls victim to cancer, he is left a single working dad with the sole responsibility of caring for his sixth grade son with autism. Patrick, who prefers to be called ‘Po,’ is a gifted but challenged child who was very close to his mother and unable to communicate his own sense of loss. As father and son struggle to deal with life after mom, they each begin to withdraw into their own worlds. David into the high pressure job he’s close to losing and Po drifting away from the school where he’s bullied into his magical fantasy world, the Land of Color, where he’s just a typical carefree boy with a rich cast of other worldly companions. The growing divide between father and son and the challenges of single parenthood of a special needs child threaten to separate David and Po permanently. Based on a true story, the bonds of love between a grieving father and son are tested in the most real way in Po.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the movie “A Boy Called Po,” the story revolves around a young widower named David Wilson who is raising his autistic son, Patrick, also known as Po. The film sheds light on the challenges faced by families dealing with autism, aiming to break stereotypes and stigmas associated with the condition.
The opening scene sets the tone as David mourns his wife’s death while struggling to connect with his son, who is deeply affected by the loss. Po, a highly intelligent child with a passion for math and reading, begins to retreat into his own world following his mother’s passing. As Po’s behavior becomes increasingly difficult to manage, David faces the dilemma of balancing his demanding job as an engineer with the responsibilities of fatherhood.
One of the poignant aspects of the movie is the portrayal of Po’s inner world through vivid dream sequences where he interacts with characters like a pirate, a cowboy, and a knight. These dream encounters serve as a reflection of Po’s emotional journey and his need for understanding and connection in the real world.
The film delves into the bureaucratic challenges that parents of autistic children often encounter, such as navigating school systems, therapy sessions, and insurance issues. It avoids the common clichés seen in movies about autism by presenting a more realistic and nuanced portrayal of the struggles faced by families dealing with the condition.
Despite its heartfelt intentions, the movie faces criticism for trying to tackle too many subplots, particularly focusing on David’s ambitious airplane project. The additional symbolic weight given to this storyline detracts from the central theme of the father-son relationship and the challenges of raising a child with autism.
An interesting element of the film is the musical score composed by the legendary Burt Bacharach, which adds emotional depth to the narrative. Bacharach’s contribution to the film’s soundtrack enhances the storytelling, creating a poignant atmosphere that complements the father-son dynamics portrayed on screen.
Overall, “A Boy Called Po” offers a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of autism, the struggles of single parenthood, and the importance of empathy and understanding in dealing with individuals on the autism spectrum. While the film may have its flaws in terms of narrative focus, its genuine portrayal of family dynamics and emotional depth make it a moving and thought-provoking watch.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
PG
Age Rating:
This movie is recommended for children aged 9 and above due to its themes and content.
Parental Guide:
“A Boy Called Po” is a heartwarming drama that touches on themes of loss, autism, and bullying. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you decide if this movie is suitable for your child:
- Sex & Nudity: There are no sexual scenes or nudity in the movie. The only reference is when it’s mentioned a few times that the main character’s imaginary friend ‘has two daddies’.
- Violence & Gore: The movie contains minimal violence, mainly related to bullying. There are emotional scenes depicting the struggles of a father and son coping with loss and autism. No graphic violence or gore is shown.
- Profanity: The film includes a couple of rude words, but they are mild and likely nothing children haven’t heard before at school.
- Other Potentially Disturbing Content: The movie deals with themes of grief, autism, and escapism. It portrays the challenges faced by a father and his son in dealing with loss and the realities of living with autism.
Overall, “A Boy Called Po” is a touching film that offers a glimpse into the world of autism and the impact of loss on a family. Parents of children aged 9 and above may find this movie both educational and emotional, providing an opportunity for discussions around empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | You can stream ‘A Boy Called Po’ on Amazon Prime Video. |
| Peacock | You can stream ‘A Boy Called Po’ on Peacock. |
| The Roku Channel | You can watch ‘A Boy Called Po’ for free with ads on The Roku Channel. |
| VUDU Free | You can watch ‘A Boy Called Po’ for free with ads on VUDU Free. |
| Tubi TV | You can watch ‘A Boy Called Po’ for free with ads on Tubi TV. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
The intentions behind "A Boy Called Po" are not only good, but honorable.
Po is an inspiring story about a committed father, David Wilson, and his love and concern for his autistic son, Patrick, fondly called "Po".
A Boy Called Po is an engaging, low budget movie with a strong, powerful climax. There are a few endings after the climax, but they each resolve several important issues. The heart of this movie is the relationship between the father and his son.
🤖A Boy Called Po Reddit Talks
Autism Representation and Characterization
Several discussions center around the portrayal of autistic characters in “A Boy Called Po” and other films. Some users express concerns over the accuracy and sensitivity of the representation, while others commend the efforts made to shed light on autism spectrum disorder.
Emotional Impact and Personal Experiences
Many users share their emotional reactions to the film, highlighting its ability to evoke strong feelings and resonate with personal experiences. They describe feeling deeply moved by the characters’ struggles and triumphs, and some draw parallels to their own lives or those of loved ones.
Comparison to Other Films
Users compare “A Boy Called Po” to other films featuring autistic characters, such as “Cube.” They discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each portrayal, considering factors like character development, authenticity, and the overall message conveyed.
Cultural and Social Impact
The film’s exploration of autism and its impact on individuals and families sparks discussions about broader cultural and social issues. Users discuss the importance of raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering inclusivity for those on the autism spectrum.
Artistic Merit and Entertainment Value
While some users focus on the film’s emotional and social impact, others engage in discussions about its artistic merits and entertainment value. They comment on the film’s technical aspects, such as cinematography, acting, and storytelling, and assess its overall quality as a cinematic experience.
Personal Stories and Anecdotes
Many users share personal stories and experiences related to autism, either their own or those of people they know. These anecdotes provide a diverse and nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals on the spectrum.
Controversies and Criticisms
A small number of users raise concerns or criticisms about the film. Some express disappointment with certain aspects of the portrayal or storytelling, while others engage in debates about the film’s overall message and impact.
Additional Observations
- Some users discuss the film’s potential as an educational tool for families and educators.
- Others highlight the importance of continued representation and advocacy for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/autism/comments/bu2wq5/watched_a_boy_called_po_last_night_and_my_wife/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/lyscit/my_opinions_on_the_autistic_characters_from_cube/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/SpicyAutism/comments/1blj41y/what_is_a_good_movie_with_an_autistic_main/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/kungfupanda/comments/1c438u5/can_someone_explain_this_to_me/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/kungfupanda/comments/1c247fk/name_me_one_goodenjoyable_thing_about_this_movie/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Boy Called Po based on a true story?
Yes, A Boy Called Po is a 2016 American drama film based on a true story. It is directed by John Asher and written by Colin Goldman. The movie stars Christopher Gorham, Julian Feder, and Kaitlin Doubleday.
What is the movie A Boy Called Po about?
A Boy Called Po follows the story of David, an overworked engineer who struggles to care for his son with autism after his wife dies of cancer. The son, Po, is a gifted but challenged child who finds it difficult to communicate his own sense of loss.
Who are the main cast members of A Boy Called Po?
The main cast members of A Boy Called Po include Christopher Gorham as David Wilson, Julian Feder as Po Wilson, Kaitlin Doubleday as Amy, Andrew Bowen as Jack, and Sean Gunn as Ben.
What is the central theme of A Boy Called Po?
A Boy Called Po primarily revolves around the struggles of a widowed father, David, as he navigates caring for his autistic son, Po. The movie delves into themes of loss, family dynamics, and the challenges faced by parents of children with autism.
How is autism portrayed in A Boy Called Po?
A Boy Called Po presents an honest portrayal of autism through the character of Po, showcasing his unique challenges and the impact it has on his relationship with his father. The film sheds light on the complexities of autism and the emotional journey of both the child and the parent.
Where can I watch A Boy Called Po?
You can watch A Boy Called Po on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, The Roku Channel, VUDU Free, and Tubi TV. The movie is a touching drama that explores themes of family, loss, and the bonds between a father and his autistic son.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Mozart and the Whale: A love story between two adults living with Asperger’s syndrome, based on the true story of Jerry and Mary Newport.
- Atypical: A Netflix series about a teen on the autism spectrum navigating relationships and independence.
- Son-Rise: A Miracle of Love: A TV movie depicting a family’s journey in raising an autistic child.
- Nathan’s Kingdom: A movie about autism for young adult audiences.
- Keep the Change: A film showcasing relationships involving individuals with autism.
- Jack of Red Hearts: A story involving autism and personal struggles.
- Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close: A movie featuring themes of loss and personal struggles.
Wallpapers & Media
🔥 Audience Trends
