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Because of Winn-Dixie

If you like dogs, kids and stories about relationships, this movie fills the bill. Although it is a children’s movie, adults will identify with the themes of loneliness, sadness and the need for friendship. If you can remember the times you felt lonely and needed a friend, or maybe missed an absent mom or dad, you’ll understand India Opal, the star of this movie. You’ll also appreciate the casting of Cicely Tyson, Eva Marie Saint and Jeff Daniels.

Opal (played by newcomer AnnaSophia Robb) has recently moved to a small town, Naomi, FL. Opal’s dad (Jeff Daniels) is a preacher. Both are hurting and their relationship is strained. Opal’s mother left them when Opal was three. Her dad has never allowed her to ask questions, and he has withdrawn from her and from life. The movie begins as the lonely Opal tries to adapt to another new home. One day her dad sends her to the grocery store, Winn-Dixie, where she befriends a ragtag dog that has gotten into trouble in the store. Or rather, in Opal’s view, the dog befriends her. She calls him Winn-Dixie because of the store and she takes him home.

An immediate bonding gives them both a place. Soon they are meeting some of the slightly quirky characters in the town. Miss Fanny Block (Eva Marie Saint), the librarian, is a Southern lady who likes children and wants someone to listen to her stories. Opal is a willing audience. Gloria Dump (Cicely Tyson), often referred to as the town witch, is a lonely, nearly blind woman whose wisdom and eccentricity grow on you. Otis (Dave Matthews) is an ex-con who is running the pet store. He cares for the animals by playing his guitar and singing to them. A grumpy landlord, a couple of young girls and two ornery boys also become Opal’s friends.

Through the burgeoning of these relationships and her love for Winn-Dixie, Opal gathers the courage to question her dad about her mom. As you’ve probably guessed, every character grows and everyone learns about love. How they all arrive at that destination is what makes the story a delight.

In particular, AnnaSophia Robb is very believable and you can’t help but fall for her. You have probably known all the characters in some form or another. That’s what makes the movie work. You like them all and you’re happy to see each of them reach outside themselves to each other. And I must add that the dog is great too - he has a very expressive face and he’s all dog.

The movie, based on a very good children’s story written by Kate DiCamillo , teaches us lessons, without becoming syrupy or preachy. It is directed by Wayne Wang, who creates a setting that fits with the characters and development of the story.

Written by: Pat McGrath Avery

Reviewers Rating: 7
Reader's Rating: 9.50
Reader's Votes: 4

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