“Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth.” – IMDB
Whether you are a movie nerd (like myself) or an occasional moviegoer, I am sure you know that Steven Spielberg is a legend. He is one of the most prolific and successful directors of all time and yet, in my opinion, has never lost his ability to bring a human touch to even the most fantastical stories. This holds true for his newest film, The Fabelmans.
The Fabelmans is Spielberg’s reflection on his youth, his family, and the true love of his life: the movies. And even though the film is told from the legendary auteur’s point of view, it never feels as though Spielberg is putting himself on a pedestal. Instead, his signature style allows him to simultaneously create an exciting and upbeat atmosphere through which we come to understand his love of filmmaking, while also tackling the more difficult parts of his youth, including antisemitism and the breakdown of his parents marriage, with authenticity and tenderness.
My favorite movies tend to be bittersweet, with a perfect blend of humor and honesty (i.e. Jojo Rabbit) and The Fablemans fits that bill perfectly. There is an incredible depth of feeling within this story; however, Spielberg (as with all of his other films) never loses sight of entertaining his audience. And while I can appreciate a sad film as much as the next person, my favorite way to leave a theater is having been moved by what I’ve just watched, but with a smile on my face. And that’s exactly how I left The Fabelmans.
Rating: 8 out 10 Claire Bears
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If you like this movie, you should also watch: Hugo, Cinema Paradiso
Streaming: In Theaters only
With: Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle, Paul Dano
Directed By: Steven Spielberg
Let Me Clarify 