If you’re looking for a good rental for the family this weekend I strongly recommend Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium.  It stars Dustin Hoffman, Natalie Portman, and Jason Bateman in a spectacular story about believing in yourself. It is positively appropriate for all ages and everyone will enjoy it.

At first the story has a strong resemblance to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, but Mr. Margorium is so much warmer and endearing the comparison quickly fades. 

Natalie Portman plays a young woman who thrived as a child because she believed all the good things people said about her.  Somewhere along the lines she became a grown up and stopped believing in herself and on the verge of giving up her dreams.  Her boss and friend, Mr. Magorium has other plans in store for her, though.

The characters are all lovely, the toy store is amazing, and the messages are bold but not preachy.  Dustin Hoffman’s Mr. Magorium character is full of wisdom and thoughtful lines. 

We love movies around our house.  We watch them and we discuss them.  When the movie was over I asked the kids, “Now what did we learn from Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium?” and they both yelled, “Never stop believing in yourself!”  It was the most enthusiastic answer they have ever given to that question I often ask.  I hope as they grow up they hold that movie close to them and never forget what they learned. 

Have you seen it yet?