Second Hand Lions is a 2003 American comedy-drama film written and directed by Tim McCanlies. It stars Haley Joel Osment, Michael Caine, Robert Duvall, and Kyra Sedgwick. The story tells of an introverted young boy named Walter (Osment) who is sent by his mother (Sedgwick) to spend the summer with his two eccentric great-uncles (Caine and Duvall) in rural Texas. The movie explores themes of family and loyalty, and the power of stories to shape one’s life. It was a commercial success and has become a beloved classic.
The Story
The movie begins with Walter’s mother, Mae, informing him that she is sending him away for the summer to stay with his great-uncles, Hub and Garth. She claims that the two men are wealthy and have a fortune hidden somewhere on their property. Walter is initially apprehensive about the arrangement, but reluctantly agrees. He arrives at his uncles’ house to find them living in a rural Texas town and surrounded by eccentric neighbors.
The two men are initially hostile towards Walter, but eventually warm up to him. As the summer progresses, Walter learns that his uncles are not as wealthy as his mother had led him to believe. In fact, they are living hand-to-mouth, relying on the generosity of their neighbors. Walter also learns that Hub and Garth are war veterans who had fought in World War II and were awarded medals for their service.
Walter soon discovers that the two men had been adventurers in their younger years and had even been to Africa. They have many stories to tell about their exploits, which Walter eagerly listens to. As the summer continues, Walter becomes closer to his uncles and discovers the true source of their wealth: a hidden fortune that they had kept hidden for many years.
The Cast
The film stars Haley Joel Osment as Walter, Michael Caine as Hub, and Robert Duvall as Garth. Kyra Sedgwick plays Walter’s mother, Mae. Other supporting roles include Nicky Katt as Paul, Josh Lucas as Steve, and Debra Winger as Mabel, the local librarian.
Themes
Second Hand Lions is a movie about family and loyalty. It explores the idea that stories can have a powerful effect on our lives. Walter is initially skeptical of his uncles’ stories, but as he gets to know them better he begins to understand their power. He also learns that his uncles have been protecting a secret treasure all these years, a treasure that can bring wealth and security to their family.
The movie also touches on the concept of loyalty. Walter discovers that his uncles have been loyal to one another through thick and thin, and he is inspired to be more loyal to his own family. The movie also shows that loyalty is not always easy, and that sometimes it requires great sacrifice in order to be truly meaningful.
Reception
Second Hand Lions was a commercial success and was well-received by critics. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, and Michael Caine and Robert Duvall both received Golden Globe nominations for their performances. The movie has enjoyed a long life on home video, and is still beloved by fans today.
Conclusion
Second Hand Lions is a classic movie that is beloved by fans from all generations. It explores themes of family and loyalty, and the power of stories to shape one’s life. The movie stars Michael Caine and Robert Duvall in two of their most memorable performances, and Kyra Sedgwick and Haley Joel Osment provide strong supporting roles. The movie was a commercial success and was well-received by critics, and it has gone on to become a beloved classic.