I Am David

A worthwhile film, but a much better book | Andrew Coffin

I Am David is the latest release from Walden Media, the family and education-oriented production company behind the very successful Holes, the less successful Around the World in 80 Days, and the upcoming adaptation of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. This newest effort is a solid, middle-of-the-road production that makes for worthwhile, if not indispensable, family viewing.

I Am David (rated PG for thematic elements and violent content) is based on the Anne Holm novel David, published in 1963 (see below). It's the story of a young Bulgarian boy's escape from a Communist labor camp in post–World War II Eastern Europe. The journey from Bulgaria to Denmark (where David was mysteriously instructed to go) takes on both outward and inward significance. David is searching for a vague concept of freedom—impressed upon him by fellow prisoner Johannes—and, perhaps, whatever remains of his family. But he's also a quiet, reserved boy, prone to distrust and defensiveness, slowly learning to accept and show affection.