Lying just off the coast of Detroit, Belle Isle is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This beautiful island park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. **From stunning views of the Detroit skyline to lush gardens and historic landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.** One of the standout features of Belle Isle is its breathtaking views. **With its prime location in the Detroit River, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city's skyline.** Whether it's during the day or at sunset, the view from Belle Isle never fails to impress.
"The Magic of Belle Isle" is getting an on-demand video release before a limited theatrical run in July, reflecting a belief that a small scale film like this -- driven by character and actual conversation -- has a better chance of finding its audience in the comfort of home than in theatres during the sound and fury and 3D of the summer movie season. "Belle Isle" is all about the comforts of home and its simplest of pleasures may be best appreciated within the confines of a smaller screen.
In addition to Freeman The Bucket List and Madsen Ghosts of Mississippi , the cast includes Madeline Carroll the underseen Flipped as Madsen s oldest daughter, Willow yes, Willow. But Reiner has always worked wonders with child actors, and Emma Fuhrmann, especially, as middle daughter Finnegan yes, Finnegan , admirably holds her own in her pivotal scenes in which she asks Monte teach her how to write stories.
** Whether it's during the day or at sunset, the view from Belle Isle never fails to impress. Nature lovers will also be in paradise on Belle Isle. The island is home to several gardens and green spaces that showcase stunning flora and fauna.
View the magic of Belle Isle
"The Magic of Belle Isle" (109 minutes) is available via iTunes, Amazon, Comcast, DirecTV, VUDU and other outlets. A limited theatrical release begins July 1.
Rob Reiner's "The Magic of Belle Isle" is an Easy Button of a film, as generic and conventional as its title. If you ever wondered what a Hallmark Channel original movie would be like if you threw some A-list talent at it -- namely Morgan Freeman and Virginia Madsen instead of, say, Jeffrey Nordling and Kristy Swanson -- here's your answer.
AdvertisementFreeman stars as Monte Wildhorn, an alcoholic in a wheelchair and "writer (of westerns) nobody reads." His books, once popular, are now out of print. Monte's nephew (Keenan Thompson) deposits him in the idyllic lakeside town of Belle Isle to housesit. Nephew's ulterior motive, of course, is that he will be inspired to stop drinking and start writing again, but the embittered Monte is a hard case. "Toss it in the garbage," he says of his typewriter. "She's a black-hearted whore, and I'm done with her."
So what will it take to turn this curmudgeon into a softie? Guy Thomas' simplistic script leaves nothing to chance. How about saddling Monte with a lazy old dog named Ringo (yes, Ringo) that has a penchant for licking itself? No? Well then, how about introducing a single mother (Madsen) who is going through a divorce with three -- count 'em -- daughters: one adorable, one precocious, and one sullen? Still not enough? Well then how about adding to the mix a mentally challenged boy who hops around the neighborhood and whom Monte takes under his wing as his "sidekick?"
Monte's transformation does not exactly require a spoiler alert (especially if you see the trailer), but Freeman, the consummate character actor, can wring the bathos out of such dialogue as "That lady has a way of making me sit taller in the saddle."
W. C. Fields is credited with the quote that adult actors should never work with children or dogs. "The Magic of Belle Isle" puts these scene-stealers on notice: They should think twice about working with Morgan Freeman. But Reiner has always worked wonders with child actors, and Emma Fuhrmann, especially, as middle daughter Finnegan (yes, Finnegan), admirably holds her own in her pivotal scenes in which she asks Monte teach her how to write stories.
AdvertisementScreenwriter Thomas' lone big-screen credit was the excruciating 1980 comedy "Wholly Moses!" To have Reiner agree to direct this modest addition to the "summer that changed our lives" genre, must have been the answer to a prayer. Reiner, like Garry Marshall, but without the one-liner gag reflex, is an old-school crowd-pleaser who knows how to get the laugh and jerk the tear, sometimes shamelessly. At one point, Monte, being kissed in a dream, awakens to that dog licking his face.
Reiner gets a little help from friends and former collaborators. In addition to Freeman ("The Bucket List") and Madsen ("Ghosts of Mississippi"), the cast includes Madeline Carroll (the underseen "Flipped") as Madsen's oldest daughter, Willow (yes, Willow). Kevin Pollack ("A Few Good Men," the short-lived TV series, "Morton & Hayes") as Monte's agent, who arrives in the third act with a proposal that could rescue Monty from obscurity, and Fred Willard as a glad-handing neighbor who is a fan of Monte's books.
Tony-winner and Oscar-nominated composer Marc Shaiman, in his ninth film with Reiner, wrote the banal score which features the requisite tinkling piano that signals life sea-changes in the offing. For the boomers ("Belle Island's" likeliest visitors), he includes a gratuitous Beach Boys classic, "Don't Worry Baby."
"The Magic of Belle Isle" is getting an on-demand video release before a limited theatrical run in July, reflecting a belief that a small scale film like this -- driven by character and actual conversation -- has a better chance of finding its audience in the comfort of home than in theatres during the sound and fury and 3D of the summer movie season. "Belle Isle" is all about the comforts of home and its simplest of pleasures may be best appreciated within the confines of a smaller screen.
Freeman, as ever, only makes it look simple. His sage voice is this film's sole special effect, as witness his oration at a neighbor's funeral, his mentoring of Finnegan to use her imagination to "see what isn't there," and his description of how Madsen's character walks into a room. In a summer of superheroes, he emerges as a true wizard. His performance is the real magic of "Belle Isle."
Donald Liebenson
Donald Liebenson is a Chicago-based film critic, entertainment writer and DVD reviewer. He has been published in The Chicago Tribune, The Chicago Sun-Times, Printer's Row Journal, Los Angeles Times, Movieline and Entertainment Weekly.
Tony-winner and Oscar-nominated composer Marc Shaiman, in his ninth film with Reiner, wrote the banal score which features the requisite tinkling piano that signals life sea-changes in the offing. For the boomers ("Belle Island's" likeliest visitors), he includes a gratuitous Beach Boys classic, "Don't Worry Baby."
**The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a must-visit, offering a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers.** The Belle Isle Botanical Society maintains beautiful gardens throughout the island, including a Shakespearean garden and a sensory garden. These gardens provide peaceful havens where visitors can relax and enjoy nature's beauty. History enthusiasts will appreciate the island's rich heritage. **Belle Isle is home to several historic structures**, including the James Scott Memorial Fountain, a striking marble fountain that has become an iconic symbol of the island. The Detroit Yacht Club, the oldest yacht club in the United States, is also located on Belle Isle. **Visitors can explore these historic landmarks and learn about the island's past.** Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities on Belle Isle. The island features picnic areas, a beach, and swimming areas, making it a perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun. **There are also miles of walking and biking trails that wind through the park**, offering plenty of opportunities for exercise and exploration. Belle Isle truly is a magical place that offers a little something for everyone. **Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a day of relaxation, the beauty and charm of Belle Isle will captivate you.**.
Reviews for "Unforgettable adventures await on Belle Isle"
1. John Smith - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "View the magic of belle isle". The plot was weak and predictable, and the characters were one-dimensional. I couldn't connect with any of them and found myself losing interest halfway through the movie. The pacing was also off, with some scenes dragging on for far too long. Overall, I was left feeling unsatisfied and wouldn't recommend this movie to others.
2. Sarah Johnson - 1 star - "View the magic of belle isle" was a complete waste of time. The storyline was unoriginal and the acting was subpar. I found it hard to believe in any of the characters as they lacked depth and seemed to just go through the motions. The dialogue was cliché and cheesy, and the attempts at humor fell flat. I kept waiting for the movie to redeem itself, but it never did. Save yourself the disappointment and skip this one.
3. Michael Thompson - 2 stars - As someone who appreciates well-crafted stories, "View the magic of belle isle" fell short for me. The plot felt contrived and the dialogue was often cringe-worthy. The movie tried too hard to be heartwarming and poignant, but it ended up feeling forced and artificial. The performances were lackluster, especially from the lead actor, who seemed disinterested in his role. Overall, I regretted spending my time watching this movie and would not recommend it to others.
4. Emily Davis - 3 stars - While "View the magic of belle isle" had its moments, it ultimately failed to leave a lasting impression on me. The storyline lacked depth and the characters felt clichéd and unoriginal. The pacing was uneven, with moments of slow, drawn-out scenes followed by rushed resolutions. However, the movie did have some redeeming qualities, such as beautiful cinematography and a few touching moments. While it may appeal to some, I found it to be a forgettable experience overall.