‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood’ movie review: Tom Hanks is flawless as iconic Mister Rogers

Published: 
Listen to this article

An investigative journalist is sent to profile Fred Rogers, the beloved host of a popular children's programme

Nicola Chan |
Published: 
Comment

Latest Articles

Improving concentration and relaxation is a walk in the park – with a dog

Climate change, urbanisation lead to early flowering of cherry blossom trees

Tatler to give fans 50% ticket refund for Messi’s Hong Kong no-show by May

An intense smell from a rare corpse flower attracts visitors in San Francisco

Hong Kong grocery chain DCH goes out of business after 39 years

Hong Kong logs coldest start to March since 2016

Tom Hanks stars as Mister Rogers in this biopic.

Award-winning investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) is given an assignment he’s not thrilled about: to profile the host of the much-loved children’s TV show Mister Rogers’ Neighbourhood and one of America’s national treasures, Fred Rogers (Tom Hanks).

Though Vogel knows Rogers is admired by millions of children and adults, the cynical journalist refuses to believe that anyone can be as good natured as the TV host appears to be.

 

 

However, as he spends more time with Rogers, the callous, hot-tempered writer begins to let down his guard, and is inspired to confront his emotions and childhood trauma. 

The Farewell movie review: Awkwafina proves she is not just a comedic actress in poignant Chinese family drama

Hanks’ flawless acting is really what brings both the film and its subject to life. Whether it’s the gentle, steady eye contact he makes with the audience that shows he’s giving his undivided attention, or the meticulous thought he puts into ensuring every word he says will benefit his listeners’ mental health, Hanks revives Rogers’ flair for compassion, and embodies all his quirks, and perspectives on life. 

Inspired by American journalist Tom Junod’s feature on Rogers and their real-life friendship, the extremely moving story suitably incorporates many of Rogers’ insightful teachings with a creative twist. Just like Mister Rogers’ Neighbourhood, the movie is a timeless cure for humankind. 

Sign up for the YP Teachers Newsletter
Get updates for teachers sent directly to your inbox
By registering, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy
Comment