‘IF’ had Potential
My imagination ran wild in an odd direction.
Bea (Cailey Fleming) lost her mom at a young age, forcing her to grow up too quickly. When her dad goes into the hospital, she begins to see imaginary friends, which leads her on an adventure throughout New York City.
IF seems to be one of those movies that is trying to appeal to the widest audience possible. But I think in doing so, it becomes a movie for no one. It’s too slow and sad for kids, but there’s not enough meat there for adults. This is one of those films that I was sitting in my seat wondering, Who is this movie for?
No matter how you answer that question, it’s clear that I am not the target audience — childless, thirty-something — so take all of my opinions with a grain of salt.
Still, I think there are some really good ideas here. The concept of a child who has had to grow up too quickly is relatable to many. The journey of this jaded child learning to imagine again is heartwarming. But I think the structure of this film makes it difficult to pull off.
At first, Bea’s hard exterior is up. She even tells her light-hearted father (John Krasinski)…
