A Mile in His Shoes

A Mile In His Shoes

Actors: Dean Cain, Luke Schroder

Number of discs: 1

Rated: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

Studio: Vivendi Entertainment

DVD Release Date: January 10, 2012

Run Time: 91 minutes

List Price: $14.93

From the PR Firm: Only a miracle can help baseball coach Arthur “Murph” Murphy (Dean Cain) and his losing minor league baseball team. As Murph sets out to recruit new talent, he stumbles upon Mickey (Luke Schroder), a young farmer with an incredible pitcher’s arm. However, Mickey’s parents are reluctant in allowing him to join the team because he has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism. Murph convinces Mickey’s parents that life in the minor league will benefit their unique son, but he doesn’t realize just how much his new recruit will help the team’s game and, more importantly, their spirit. Based on a true story, A Mile in His Shoes is an inspirational film that celebrates faith, determination and the power of friendship.

My take: Apparently, "A Mile in His Shoes," is based on Frank Nappi's bestseller "The Legend of Mickey Tussler." I didn't know that when I asked to review the movie as I've never heard of the book. So I cannot tell you if the movie is a faithful adaptation or not. I can tell you that this is a wonderful family movie. A movie that offers a glimpse into the world of a child with Asperger's Syndrome - for me, it offered a glimpse into my niece's world.  In this movie, Mickey is a child with Asperger's.  I say a child, because even though he is grown, his disorder leaves him in something of a child-like state of mind.  He takes everything and everyone quite literally - children with this disorder don't understand expressions.  Regardless of his diagnosis though, Mickey (as Coach Murph discovers) has a heck of a pitching arm and thus, a possibility of a life outside his farm.  Of course, Murph has to overcome Mickey's parent's objections (especially his hard nosed dad) to get Mickey on the team.  This is a wonderful film about how resilience, acceptance, and teamwork.  I encourage you to show this film to your children and start a discussion on what it means to be different.  And because Mickey is bullied by a jealous player in the film, you can talk about bullying as well.  I was privileged to review this fine film and am privileged to love a child with Asperger's.  I love you Ash!

Walk a mile in my shoes

just walk a mile in my shoes

Before you abuse, criticize and accuse

Then walk a mile in my shoes

from "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" by Joe South

This review was sponsored by Bender/Helper Impact PR and Vivendi Entertainment who provided the DVD for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary DVD.  
My opinions are my own.

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