X
- 1998
- PG
- Miramax Family Films
- 1 h 28 m
- 1998
- PG
- Miramax Family Films
- 1 h 28 m
Directed By: M. Night Shyamalan
Written By: M. Night Shyamalan
- 1998
- PG
- Miramax Family Films
- 1 h 28 m
- 1998
- PG
- Miramax Family Films
- 1 h 28 m
Wide Awake
50
User Score
Available after 4 ratings
tbd
Where to Watch
Directed By: M. Night Shyamalan
Written By: M. Night Shyamalan
Where to Watch
Top Cast
Metascore
Mixed or Average
Based on 21 Critic Reviews
50
43% Positive
9 Reviews
9 Reviews
43% Mixed
9 Reviews
9 Reviews
14% Negative
3 Reviews
3 Reviews
Metascore
Mixed or Average
Based on 21 Critic Reviews
50
43% Positive
9 Reviews
9 Reviews
43% Mixed
9 Reviews
9 Reviews
14% Negative
3 Reviews
3 Reviews
Wide Awake is a children's movie that does not rely on special effects, computer-generated trickery, bathroom humor, slapstick violence or inappropriate adult situations to satisfy its audience. [03 Apr 1998, p.E7]
Unlike many child-driven movies, Shyamalan trusts in the ability of a young audience to handle serious questions. There's also room for some truly funny moments, and a fine performance from Rosie O'Donnell as one of the nuns at Joshua's school. [03 Apr 1998, p.9G]
Tearful audiences will know they are in safe hands with Shyamalan, and that no matter what happens, at the bottom of each box of tissues is a happy ending with moving narration. [27 Mar 1998, p.F7]
The problem with Wide Awake, which was shot by ace cinematographer Adam Holender in rich, autumnal tones, with interiors full of inspirational shafts of light, is that there isn't a genuine moment, or character, in the whole thing. [27 Mar 1998, p.14]
Shyamalan's story is clearly autobiographical, and he imbued the tender tale with a wistful atmosphere as well as a kindly regard for parochial school, hitting some of the details just right.
Wide Awake imagines it's a seriocomic "coming of age" film radiating waves of healing sweetness and light. But beneath its suffocating, smug sentimentality, you have to look hard to uncover a single moment of truth and genuine feeling.
The movie actually makes you long for the rockin’ entertainment value of a good catechism session.
User Reviews
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Awards
Young Artist Awards
• 2 Nominations
