I’ve watched “Rango” three times this week. And I might watch it again after finishing this post.
My movie viewing habits are changing thanks to my oldest son, Elijah.
He’s two and a half, and he clearly inherited his father’s cinematic gene. We try to limit the amount of television time he sees on a given day, but occasionally we let him watch a feature-length film from start to finish. So far, he loves “Rango,” “Spider-Man 2,” “Superman,” “Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut” and “Finding Nemo.”
Watching old favorites like “Superman” alongside my son is a joy I wish I could bottle up and give away for free.
Being a movie critic means I watch a LOT of movies. Occupational hazard. But now I squeeze some kiddie flicks into the mix for my son’s sake. He watches them all patiently, seemingly neither overwhelmed or bored. In fact, he often says, “more ‘Rango’” after the cagey lizard saves the day.
That convinced me to take Eli on his first trip to the movies over the weekend.
Eli had seen the trailer for the upcoming “Winnie the Pooh” feature and seemed tickled by that hunny-loving bear. So when I heard the local screening allowed kids of all ages to attend I thought I’d bring Eli along. We had the Missus stationed just outside the theater ready to take him away if he melted down or acted like a typical two-year-old.
Not my boy. He sat through the entire film like a champ. No talking. No texting.
This is the start of a beautiful movie-watching friendship.
(Photo: Your humble film blogger and his son, Elijah Shane)
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
He’s adorable! Can’t wait until he starts dictating his reviews to you.
How…refreshing.
Awwww, that melts me. Guiding a son on his cinematic journey must be something else!
No texting? Would hope not from a 2.5 year old.
Great photo! I can’t believe he is that old already. And you said “oldest,” is there another infant Toto?
I am so glad you are able to enjoy movies with Eli already! Isn’t it fun?
Yes, our son Benjamin is three months old. He’s a doll and spends his days smiling at Mama and Papa. And, of course, throwing up on us.
Great news! Congratulations!