William Ainscough and Donald Sutherland in Milton’s Secret.
Workaholic parents have little attention for family, smartphones are omnipresent, economic times are tough. Life, man – it's stressful.
For Milton Adams (William Ainscough), on the cusp of 12, there are the added pressures of a bully next door, the possibility of his parents divorcing and a looming public-speaking assignment. Then, his grandfather (Donald Sutherland, who is terrific) comes to town, wearing a loud shirt but exuding calm.
A hippie who has fought his own demons with a conscious and spiritual approach to life, Grandpa teaches Milton to deal with anxiety and get off Planet Fear. There's a lesson there for Milton's parents (Mia Kirshner and David Sutcliffe), too. Milton's teacher (Michelle Rodriguez) is another caring figure.
Based on the picture book co-authored by Power of Now superstar Eckhart Tolle, Milton's Secret carries a powerful and important message, but the film feels ham-fisted, clichéd and overearnest at times, especially for adult viewers. It is a worthy outing (or VOD rental) for any family, though – if you can find the time.
Marsha Lederman